chapter
This term evokes a sense of structured progression, whether in a physical book or the timeline of a human life. When used to describe a life stage, it suggests a clean break from the past and the start of a new narrative arc, often carrying a hopeful or transformative connotation. It implies that the person is the protagonist of their own story, moving from one distinct phase to another.
In organizational contexts, the word shifts from a narrative sense to a structural one, denoting a localized cell of a larger entity. This usage emphasizes a balance between local autonomy and adherence to a central authority. There are no irregular pluralization rules or unusual countability constraints associated with this noun.
Meanings
A main division of a written work, such as a book, typically numbered consecutively.
The third chapter of the novel introduces the antagonist.
A distinct period or stage in a person's life or the history of an organization.
Moving to a new city marked the beginning of a fresh chapter in her career.
A local branch of a larger organization, such as a professional society, fraternity, or club.
He joined the local chapter of the historical society to meet other enthusiasts.
Examples
The final chapter of the novel provides a surprising twist.
Moving to a new city marked a fresh chapter in her career.
He joined the local chapter of the historical society.
The club's northern chapter organizes an annual rally.
The cathedral chapter is responsible for the administration of the church.
The author decided to chapter the memoir chronologically.
Collocations & Compounds
final chapter
Noun collocation: the concluding section of a book
The final chapter reveals the killer.
new chapter
Noun collocation: a fresh start or period in life
Graduation marks a new chapter for students.
local chapter
Noun collocation: a regional branch of an organization
She leads the local chapter of the club.
chapter meeting
Noun collocation: a gathering of a local branch
The chapter meeting is held every Tuesday.
chapter the book
Verb collocation: to organize a text into sections
He will chapter the book by theme.
Idioms & Sayings
a new chapter
a fresh start or a significant change in life
After the divorce, he felt that moving to Italy was the start of a new chapter.
the final chapter
the end of a process or a period of time
The acquisition of the company marked the final chapter of the founder's career.