boss
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boss
A person who has a leadership position in a company, department, or organization and gives instructions to others; a superior.
Ich muss das mit meinem Chef besprechen, bevor ich eine Zusage mache.
I have to discuss that with my boss before I make a commitment.
Be careful: 'der Chef' (the boss) is not the same as the English word 'chef'! A 'Chef' in German is a superior or boss. A professional cook is 'der Koch' or 'der Küchenchef' in German.
Morgen habe ich ein wichtiges Gespräch mit meinem Chef.
Tomorrow I have an important meeting with my boss.
The word 'Chef-' is often used as the first part of compound nouns to indicate the highest-ranking position. Examples are 'Chefarzt' (chief physician), 'Chefredakteur' (editor-in-chief), or 'Chefsekretärin' (executive secretary).
Der Chefarzt der Klinik wird die Operation persönlich durchführen.
The chief physician of the clinic will perform the operation personally.
In everyday life, 'Chef' (boss) is often used humorously or informally for the person who calls the shots in a private situation. Typical phrases are 'der Chef im Haus' (the boss of the house) or 'der Chef im Ring' (the boss in the ring).
Zuhause ist meine Frau die Chefin, was die Einrichtung angeht.
At home, my wife is the boss when it comes to the furnishings.
employee
'der Mitarbeiter' and 'der Chef' are often opposites in a company. The employee works in the organization and carries out tasks. The boss has a leadership role and can make decisions or give instructions. Of course, a boss can also work alongside others, but their role is mainly leadership. When it comes to hierarchy at work, this difference is important.
Der Chef entscheidet morgen, ob das Büro früher schließt.
The boss will decide tomorrow whether the office closes earlier.
Der neue Mitarbeiter lernt heute das Team kennen.
The new employee is getting to know the team today.