lieutenant

/lef'tenənt, (Mỹ) lju:'tenənt/

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Explanation of "Lieutenant"

Definition: A "lieutenant" is a noun that refers to a person who holds a specific rank or position in the military, police, or other organizations. In the United States Navy or Coast Guard, a lieutenant is an officer who is ranked above a lieutenant junior grade and below a lieutenant commander. In general terms, a lieutenant can also be someone who assists a higher-ranking officer and takes charge when that officer is not present.

Usage Instructions:

1. In Military Context: Use "lieutenant" to refer to a rank in the military or navy.
2. In Police Context: It can also be used to describe an officer in a police department.
3. As a Title: You can use “Lieutenant” as a title before a name when addressing or referring to someone in that position.

Examples:

• Military Context: "Lieutenant Jones was in charge of the training exercises."
• Police Context: "The lieutenant coordinated the response to the emergency situation."
• Assisting Role: "She acted as a lieutenant while her boss was away, making important decisions."

Advanced Usage:

• In formal writing or discussions, you may see "lieutenant" used to emphasize leadership qualities. For example, "The lieutenant demonstrated exceptional leadership during the mission."

Word Variants:

• Lieutenant Commander: A higher rank than a lieutenant.
• Lieutenant Junior Grade: A lower rank than a lieutenant.
• Lieutenancy: The term used to refer to the period or office of a lieutenant.

Different Meanings:

1. Military/Police Rank: As previously explained, it refers to an officer in the military or police.
2. Assistant Role: It can also mean a person who has the authority to act on behalf of someone else.

Synonyms:

• Officer
• Captain (in some contexts, though rank is higher)
• Assistant (when referring to the role of supporting a superior)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Second in command": This phrase can sometimes be used to describe a lieutenant's role in relation to their superior.

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Noun

1. an officer holding a commissioned rank in the United States Navy or the United States Coast Guard; below lieutenant commander and above lieutenant junior grade
2. an assistant with power to act when his superior is absent
3. an officer in a police force
4. a commissioned military officer

Synonyms

• deputy
• police lieutenant