1.
party leader, head of a political party
The leader or chairperson of a political party. Used in news and political discourse.
新しい党首が選ばれた。
A new party leader was chosen.
党首討論がテレビで放送された。
The party leaders' debate was broadcast on television.
野党の党首が政府の方針を厳しく批判した。
The opposition party leader harshly criticized the government's policies.
USAGE:
A formal term used in political reporting and discussion. In Japan, different parties use different titles for their leaders — 総裁 (president) for the LDP, 代表 (representative) for some opposition parties — but 党首 is a general term applicable to any party leader.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 党首討論: party leaders' debate
- 党首選挙: party leadership election
- 党首会談: meeting of party leaders