management
/ˈmænədʒmənt/
This word oscillates between an abstract process of control and a concrete group of people. When referring to a process, it implies the strategic organization of resources (time, money, people) to achieve a specific goal. When used to describe people, "management" often carries a distinct social or political charge within a workplace. It creates a binary between those who hold authority and those who execute tasks, sometimes implying a detached or bureaucratic distance from the frontline workers. Compared to "leadership," which suggests inspiration and vision, "management" focuses more on administration, efficiency, and the maintenance of order. It is neutral in technical contexts but can be perceived as cold or restrictive in interpersonal ones.
Uncountable when referring to the general skill or process of organizing things ('time management'). Countable when referring to the specific group of people who hold authority in a company ('the managements of both firms agreed to merge').
💬Casual Conversation
Your room is a disaster. We need to touch base on your time management.
stop using corporate speak, you're literally just yapping
Meanings
The process of dealing with or controlling things or people.
"Effective time management is essential for productivity."
The people who run a company, organization, or business.
"The decision was made by senior management during the board meeting."
The act of managing or directing the operations of an organization.
"She has a degree in business management from Harvard."
Collocations & Compounds
time management
The process of organizing and planning how to divide your time between specific activities.
senior management
The highest level of executives in an organization who hold the most authority.
crisis management
The process by which an organization deals with a major unexpected event that threatens to harm the organization.
business management
The coordination and organization of business activities to achieve specific goals.
case management
A collaborative process of assessment, planning, facilitation, and advocacy for options and services to meet an individual's holistic needs.
Idioms & Sayings
middle management
The level of management that reports to senior executives and oversees lower-level employees.
upper management
The highest level of leadership within an organization, responsible for strategic decision-making.
anger management
The process of learning to recognize and control angry impulses in a positive way.
pain management
A medical approach to reducing pain through medication, therapy, or other interventions.
crisis management
The process by which an organization deals with a major unexpected event that threatens to harm the entity.