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Help: Chief vs. Chieftain
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Freeman
Aug 8, 2000, 3:00:00 AM8/8/00
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I checked the dictionary for the definition of both words, and it is said in
the book that both can mean rulers of a tribe.
But in one book I'm reading, it used the word chieftain as the synonym for
the local magnates.
the book that both can mean rulers of a tribe.
But in one book I'm reading, it used the word chieftain as the synonym for
the local magnates.
I wonder if anyone can offer an advice on dintinguishing these two terms -
chief and chieftain.
Thank you
Cybard Smith
Aug 9, 2000, 3:00:00 AM8/9/00
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"Chief" is the usual word. The only straightforward use of "chieftain" I have
heard is to describe the head of a Scottish clan. You may want to read the
terse "chief" article from a 1771 Scots encyclopaedia about chief and chieftain
at http://members.xoom.com/eb1771/ (volume II, page 183).
heard is to describe the head of a Scottish clan. You may want to read the
terse "chief" article from a 1771 Scots encyclopaedia about chief and chieftain
at http://members.xoom.com/eb1771/ (volume II, page 183).
However, the normal use of "chieftain" that I hear to-day is for someone who has
a political or corporate position that they they use to manipulate others to
gain personal advantages.
Cybard Smith
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