undersecretary
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A high-ranking official in a government department who is directly subordinate to, and assists, the head of that department (such as a minister or secretary). An undersecretary typically has significant administrative or policy responsibilities.
Usage
- The term is used as a formal title within governmental and bureaucratic structures.
- It is often part of a compound title, such as "Undersecretary of State" or "Undersecretary for Defense," which specifies the particular department.
- It refers to a position of authority, but one that is secondary to the principal secretary or minister.
Examples
- The Undersecretary for Transportation announced the new infrastructure grants.
- She was appointed Undersecretary at the Department of Energy.
- Key policy decisions require the signature of both the Secretary and the Undersecretary.
Advanced Usage
- Permanent Undersecretary (or Permanent Secretary): In some governments (notably the UK), this is the senior civil servant who leads a department administratively, serving under the political minister. This role is distinct from a political appointee who may also hold the title of undersecretary.
- Acting Undersecretary: A person temporarily performing the duties of the undersecretary.
Variants and Related Words
- Deputy Secretary: In some government hierarchies (e.g., U.S. federal government), a "Deputy Secretary" is often the second-highest official, with "Undersecretaries" ranking below. The specific hierarchy varies by country and department.
- Assistant Secretary: A position typically ranking below an undersecretary.
- Undersecretariat: The office or term of office of an undersecretary.
- Subsecretary: A less common variant with the same meaning.
Synonyms
- Deputy
- Vice-secretary
- Assistant head
- Second-in-command (of a department)
Antonyms
- Secretary (as the department head)
- Minister
- Principal
Noun
- a secretary immediately subordinate to the head of a department of government