What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
executive
Example
The executive team met to discuss the company's financial performance. [executive: noun]
Example
She has an executive role in the company, overseeing the marketing department. [executive: adjective]
director
Example
The director of finance presented the budget report to the board of directors. [director: noun]
Example
She was promoted to director of human resources after several years of working in the department. [director: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Executive is a more common term than director in everyday language, as it can be used in various contexts beyond just business. However, in a business context, director is a more common term than executive.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between executive and director?
Executive is typically associated with a more formal tone, as it is often used in a business or professional context. Director is also formal, but it can be used in a wider range of contexts beyond just business, such as in the arts or film industry.