student asking question

In the chain of command, what's the main difference between "deputy" and "vice?" Or are they interchangeable?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Deputy is used to refer to someone who is second in command, or the subordinate of a senior leader. Vice-[position] can also mean deputy or next in command, but can be only used to refer a much smaller number of people as it indicates a very high position. For example, Vice-President. Deputy can be used to refer a larger number of people, and the position doesn't necessarily need to be very high. Thus, they cannot interchangeably used. Ex: I am Vice-President of this company. I am next in command. Ex: I've decided to choose Anna as deputy for this discussion group.

Popular Q&As

12/25

Complete the expression with a quiz!