deputize
C1Formal
Definition
Meaning
To temporarily perform the duties of another person.
To appoint someone as a substitute or to act on someone else's behalf, often with temporary authority.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Most commonly used in professional or official contexts involving a temporary delegation of authority, responsibility, or function.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling: UK: 'deputise' (common, though -ize also used). US: exclusively 'deputize'. Lexical preference: US may more commonly use 'step in' or 'fill in' in less formal contexts.
Connotations
In both varieties, implies an official or semi-official capacity. In US law enforcement context, can specifically mean granting temporary police powers.
Frequency
Higher frequency in US English, particularly due to its specific use in law enforcement and corporate settings.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
(S) deputize for (O:person)(S) deputize as (O:role)(S:person/organization) deputize (O:person) to (INF)Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Pinch-hitting for the boss (US, informal).”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
The board authorized the CFO to deputize for the CEO during her medical leave.
Academic
The professor asked her senior doctoral student to deputize as the seminar leader.
Everyday
Can you deputize for me at the parents' association meeting tonight?
Technical
The sheriff deputized several citizens as a posse to assist in the search.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- She will deputise for the headteacher while he's on sabbatical.
- The committee voted to allow the vice-chair to deputise.
American English
- The captain deputized the first mate to take command.
- I had to deputize for my manager during the budget review.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- My colleague will deputize for me tomorrow.
- The assistant manager had to deputize during the meeting.
- In the manager's absence, I was asked to deputize and handle client approvals.
- The legislation allows the deputy mayor to deputize in all ceremonial functions.
- The ambassador was taken ill, so the chargé d'affaires had to deputize at the summit negotiations.
- The board passed a resolution to formally deputize the COO with full executive powers during the CEO's recovery.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'deputy' who steps into a role. Deputize = make into a deputy.
Conceptual Metaphor
AUTHORITY IS A GARMENT (to be temporarily worn).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'депутат' (a member of parliament). 'Deputize' relates to 'депутизировать' is not a standard word. Better translations: заменять (temporarily), выполнять обязанности, быть заместителем.
Common Mistakes
- Using it without 'for' when indicating the person being replaced (e.g., 'She will deputize the manager' is incorrect; 'She will deputize for the manager' is correct).
Practice
Quiz
What is the most accurate description of 'deputize'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Deputize' often implies a formal or authorized temporary replacement, especially in a chain of command. 'Substitute' is more general and can be used in any context (e.g., substituting an ingredient).
Yes, but it is less common. It can be used in any situation where one person formally or informally takes on another's role temporarily (e.g., 'Can you deputize for me and pick up the kids?').
Primarily 'deputize FOR someone' (to replace them). You can also say 'deputize AS a role' (e.g., deputize as chairperson) or 'deputize someone TO do something' (to authorize them as a deputy).
Yes, it is generally considered formal or neutral-formal. In casual speech, people often say 'stand in for', 'fill in for', or 'cover for'.