B1adjectiveworkbusiness
US/tʃiːf/
UK/tʃiːf/
most important or main; also highest in rank
In context
The chief reason for the delay was bad weather.
She was promoted to chief editor of the magazine.
Cost is our chief concern when choosing a supplier.
Words that go with chief
adjective + noun
- chief executiveThe chief executive will speak at the meeting.
- chief reasonMoney was the chief reason he left.
- chief concernSafety is our chief concern.
- chief editorThe chief editor approved the article.
- chief causeSmoking is the chief cause of lung cancer.