Do you know what the difference between chairman and chairperson is? Do both the terms mean the same thing? After reading this article, you will have a better understanding of these terms. There are times when students have to use the words ‘chairperson’ or ‘chairman’ in their passages, but since most of them don’t know whether these two are different or not, it creates confusion. The article will talk about all the details that one needs to know when they are using these terms.
The English Language has plenty of such words that have proved to be confusing for students. The common reason is that most students think those commonly confused words mean the same, and as a result, they misinterpret them. Let’s see the points of difference between ‘chairman’ and ‘chairperson’.
- Table Summarising the Difference between Chairman and Chairperson
- The Difference between Chairman and Chairperson – Meanings
- Examples of Chairman and Chairperson
- Chairman and Chairperson – Conclusion
Table Summarising the Difference between Chairman and Chairperson
| Chairman | Chairperson |
| Meaning | Chairman refers to a person who presides over any meeting/organisation/board. | Chairperson is a gender-neutral term that’s used to refer to a person who presides over any meeting/organisation/board. |
| Usage | It is used as a Noun. | It is used as a Noun. |
| Example | Ratan Tata is the chairman of Tata Group. | Miss Emily is the chairperson of a multinational company. |
This table shows that although ‘chairman’ and ‘chairperson’ refer to people who head a meeting/committee or organisation they can’t be used interchangeably. Once the students go through the entire article, it will become clear to them when and how to use these terms.
The Difference between Chairman and Chairperson – Meanings
The word ‘chairman’ has been in use for ages, but problems arise when a woman holds such a high position – who presides over a committee/board or organisation. Using the word ‘chairman’ to refer to a woman in power can prove to be problematic. So if you are looking for a term to address a woman holding such a position, then the word ‘chairperson’ is perfect. Both the terms ‘chairman’ and ‘chairperson’ mean the same thing, but if you understand the terms properly, then you’ll realise that ‘chairperson’ is a gender-neutral term. This term can be used to refer to both a woman or a man who presides over any meeting/organisation/board. Once students understand this concept, it will be easy for them to use these words in the right context.
Examples of Chairman and Chairperson
The following examples will help students understand the terms ‘chairman’ and ‘chairperson’:
Chairperson – Miss Elena Peterson is the youngest chairperson the company has appointed in ages. (noun)
Chairman – Mr Rahul is the present chairman of the startup company. (noun)
Once students understand the difference between the words ‘chairman’ and ‘chairperson’, they can easily apply them in proper contexts in sentences.
Chairman and Chairperson – Conclusion
In conclusion, the words ‘chairman’ and ‘chairperson’, though are synonymous, can not be used interchangeably. This article points out the difference i.e., when to use the terms ‘chairman’ and ‘chairperson’ along with examples to make it easy for students to use these in sentences. BYJU’S offers various articles on many such ‘Differences Between Two Words’ that students often get confused with.
FAQs
While both terms refer to a person who presides over a meeting, organisation, or board, 'chairman' is traditionally used to refer to a man, whereas 'chairperson' is a gender-neutral term that can refer to either a man or a woman in such a position.
Is it politically correct to say "chairman"? ›
In some organizations, the chair is also known as president (or other title). In others, where a board appoints a president (or other title), the two terms are used for distinct positions. The term chairman may be used in a neutral manner, not directly implying the gender of the holder.
What is a female chairman called? ›
The noun chairman can refer to this person, whether male or female, though sometimes a woman is called a chairwoman.
What is higher than a chairperson? ›
Within the corporate structure, the Chairman and CEO are the two highest-ranking roles within their respective entities. The CEO leads the company, while the Chairman leads the Board of Directors.
Is a CEO more powerful than a Chairman? ›
Since the board chairperson is superior to the CEO, the CEO has to get the board chairperson to approve any significant moves. While the board chairperson has the ultimate power over the CEO, the two typically discuss all issues and effectively co-lead the organization.
How do you address a female chairman? ›
Use "Madam Chair" or "Madam Chairman" to address a female chair. The term "chairwoman" can be used if there is a particular reason to make the clear distinction that a female is fulfilling the role.
What can I say instead of chairman? ›
- Strongest matches. administrator chairperson chairwoman director leader spokesman.
- Strong matches. captain chair moderator monitor President principal speaker toastmaster.
- Weak matches. introducer presider prolocutor.
Both the terms 'chairman' and 'chairperson' mean the same thing, but if you understand the terms properly, then you'll realise that 'chairperson' is a gender-neutral term. This term can be used to refer to both a woman or a man who presides over any meeting/organisation/board.
What is the neutral term for chairman? ›
Use chair instead of chairman or chairwoman.
Is chairman appropriate for a woman? ›
In the past, chairman was used to refer to both men and women, but it is now not often used to refer to a woman. The woman in charge of a meeting or organization is sometimes referred to as the chairwoman. Margaret Downes is this year's chairwoman of the Irish Institute.
Naturally, it is important to address the Chair by his/her correct title, as set out in the conference documents. In committees of large formal conferences, it is “Mr. Chairman” or “Madam Chair.”
What are 5 responsibilities of a chairperson in a meeting? ›
During meetings the chair should introduce each item and its purpose, request contributions, encourage participation, ensure others do not dominate the meeting, delegate tasks, record votes if necessary, and make sure the meeting keeps to time.
What is the politically correct term for chairman? ›
“Chair” is gender neutral but “chairman” is gendered as male. Not all chairs are male; therefore, chair is inclusive of those who are not male and of hypothetical chairs of unknown gender. In case it's a chairwoman. You can't assume in advance, so it's jusy as well if you use a gender-neutral term.
Can CEO and chairman be the same person? ›
Can One Person Be A CEO And A Chairman At The Same Time? It's certainly possible for one person to be both the Chairman and CEO. Having a joint Chairman and CEO can streamline the decision-making process and create a clearer company culture.
What is the most powerful job of a chairperson? ›
1. Leadership of the Board. One of the primary roles of a chairperson is to provide leadership to the board. They guide the board members in making informed decisions, promoting constructive discussions, and ensuring board effectiveness.
How do you refer to a chairman? ›
Chairman” or “Madam Chair.” Thereafter, the words “Mr. Chairman” or “Madam Chair” can be sprinkled throughout a statement, to signify paragraphs or to emphasize particular points (e.g., “My delegation will never, Mr. Chairman, abandon....”)
How do I address the chairman of the board? ›
Dear Mr. Chairman/Madam Chairwoman: Note: Members should be addressed as Chair when they are writing in their official capacity as Chair (using Committee letterhead); but if they are writing in only as a member, you should not use “Chair.”
What is the neutral word for chairman? ›
Use chair instead of chairman or chairwoman.
What is another name for a chairman? ›
Chairman can seem inappropriate when applied to a woman, while chairwoman specifies gender, therefore the terms chair and chairperson are often preferred as alternatives.
