kingmaker

IPA/ˈkɪŋmeɪkə(r)/
KK[kˈɪŋmˌekɚ]IPA/ˈkɪŋmeɪkər/

kingmaker — noun

  • kingmakersingular
  • kingmakersplural

1. someone who holds enough influence to decide who gets promoted to powerful or le

1.名詞C1
釋義

someone who holds enough influence to decide who gets promoted to powerful or leadership roles in a group, company, or political party

例句

Theo became the party's chief kingmaker after helping three candidates win their primaries.

the party's chief kingmaker

Maria earned the title of corporate kingmaker when two of her picks joined the board.

title of corporate kingmaker

同義詞
  • power broker

    emphasises the use of political or financial leverage, often behind the scenes

  • influencer

    broader and weaker; can refer to social media popularity, not necessarily leadership selection

  • kingpin

    means the central figure in an organisation (often criminal), not someone who promotes others

用法筆記

Common in political journalism and business writing. The term originally referred to Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick, who played a decisive role in the 15th-century Wars of the Roses in England. Unlike 'king,' the tone is neutral to slightly admiring — it implies skill rather than criticism.

常見錯誤

❌He was the kingmaker who ruled the country.
✅He was the kingmaker who helped put the new leader in power.
💡A kingmaker does not rule directly; they influence who gets to rule.