chair a meeting

The expression chair a meeting is one of the idioms that often finds a place in our literature and enriches our language. However, its meaning is not fully understood, so it is sometimes used in the wrong situations. Please review the explanation carefully for the correct use of the chair a meeting idiom.

Meaning of "chair a meeting"

Meaning

To ‘chair a meeting’ is to preside over a meeting in a position of authority and take responsibility for leading it to a successful and timely conclusion. The person 'chairing' the meeting is often the one who is leading the discussion and mediation of any disputes, as well as introducing and summarizing the agenda.

Etymology

The phrase 'chair a meeting' dates back to the late 18th century and is derived from the Latin word 'cathedra', which translates to 'seat' or 'chair'. This is the origin of the word 'chairman', which is the highest-ranking member of a board or council and the leader of any meeting or discussion.

Usage

The phrase 'chair a meeting' is mainly used in formal or professional settings, such as board meetings or conferences. It is used to indicate that the person leading the meeting has the authority and responsibility to ensure that it runs smoothly and that the agenda is discussed and addressed. The phrase is also used in the informal setting among friends, colleagues, or family members to denote who has the responsibility and authority for overseeing the discussion and ensuring that it is productive and constructive.

Example Sentences

• The CEO will be chairing the meeting, so please make sure all of your questions and comments are prepared in advance.
• The mayor will be chairing the meeting this afternoon to discuss the proposed development.
• Emily will be chairing the meeting for our team project, so make sure to bring your notes and be ready to discuss the agenda.

Beyond the Literal: Figurative Language in Idioms

Idioms often use figurative language to convey a message that is not meant to be taken literally. For instance, the idiom "bite the bullet" means to endure a painful or difficult situation without complaint, while "hold your horses" means to be patient and wait. Other idioms, like "kick the bucket" or "pop your clogs," use euphemisms to talk about death.