What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
preside
Example
The mayor will preside over the city council meeting. [preside: verb]
Example
She presided over the panel discussion, ensuring that each speaker had equal time. [presided: past tense]
govern
Example
The new law will govern how businesses operate in the city. [govern: verb]
Example
The president is responsible for governing the country. [governing: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Govern is more commonly used than preside in everyday language. Govern is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while preside is less common and typically used in formal or official settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between preside and govern?
Preside is typically associated with formal or official settings, while govern is also formal but can be used in a wider range of contexts, including academic and legal ones.
