Word: Official

Pronunciation

/əˈfiʃəl/

Definitions

• Noun: A person holding an office or appointed to a position of authority in an organization, institution, or government body. For example: “The company’s new CEO is a highly respected official.”
• Adjective: Relating to an authoritative position or body; authorized or recognized by a governing body. For instance: “The official statement from the ministry confirmed the news.”

Noun usage examples

• “The match referee is the highest official responsible for enforcing the rules during the game.”
• “The White House press secretary is an official who speaks on behalf of the President.”

Adjective usage examples

• “The official report on the project will be released next week.”
• “These are the official rules and regulations for the competition.”

Phrases

• “In an official capacity”: Acting in one’s role or position within an organization or institution, e.g., “As mayor, she attended the event in her official capacity.”
• “Official document”: A document issued or recognized by an authoritative body, such as a passport or birth certificate.
• “Official policy”: The declared stance or course of action taken by an organization or government, e.g., “The company has adopted a new official policy on diversity and inclusion.”

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The customs officer checked our passports before allowing us entry.”
• Adjective: “We need to submit the official application form to apply for the grant.”

Synonyms

• Officer
• Authority
• Representative (in some contexts)
• Authorized (as an adjective)
• Formal (as an adjective)