governor-general

governor-general

The governor-general reads a proclamation in the grand hall.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A chief representative of the Crown: In a Commonwealth realm, a "governor-general" is the official who represents the monarch (such as the King or Queen) and acts as the head of state in that country or territory.
    • A colonial administrator: Historically, a "governor-general" was a high-ranking official appointed to govern a colony or group of colonies on behalf of a sovereign power.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • The governor-general opened the new session of parliament. (The representative of the monarch performed the ceremonial duty.)
    • Canada's governor-general is appointed by the King on the advice of the prime minister. (The official is chosen through a political process.)
    • The governor-general granted royal assent to the bill. (The official formally approved the law.)
Advanced Usage

  • "His/Her Excellency the Governor-General": a formal title used to address or refer to the officeholder.

    • Her Excellency the Governor-General will attend the ceremony. (The official is referred to with respect.)

  • "Governor-General of a dominion": a historical term for the representative of the British monarch in a self-governing colony or dominion.

    • The governor-general of India held vast authority before independence. (The official governed a large territory.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Governor (noun): a person who governs a state, province, or colony.
    • The governor of the state signed the new law. (The leader of a regional government.)
  • General (adjective/noun): relating to the whole or overall; a high-ranking military officer.
    • The general strategy was approved. (The overall plan.)
  • Governorship (noun): the office or term of a governor.
    • His governorship lasted five years. (His time as governor.)
Synonyms
  • Viceroy: a ruler exercising authority in a colony on behalf of a sovereign (historically used for colonies like India).
  • High Commissioner: a representative of one Commonwealth country to another, sometimes with similar duties.
  • Representative of the Crown: a formal term for the governor-general's role.
Phrasal Verbs
Related Idioms