Cabecilla is a noun in Spanish.
/ka.βe.ˈsi.ʝa/
Cabecilla refers to a leader or person in charge, often used to denote someone who leads or has authority in a certain group, sometimes with a connotation of being a ringleader or an instigator. It is used in various contexts, including informal, colloquial settings, and formal discussions about leadership roles. The word can have a slightly negative connotation in some contexts, suggesting someone who may be leading in a tumultuous or rebellious manner.
In terms of usage, cabecilla is found in both oral and written contexts, but it tends to be more common in written forms, especially in legal, historical, or sociopolitical discussions.
El cabecilla del grupo mantuvo la calma durante la crisis.
The leader of the group remained calm during the crisis.
Fue considerado el cabecilla de la revolución por sus ideas radicales.
He was considered the ringleader of the revolution for his radical ideas.
La policía arrestó al cabecilla de la banda que operaba en la ciudad.
The police arrested the head of the gang that was operating in the city.
Cabecilla is not commonly featured in a large number of idiomatic expressions. However, it can still be used in contexts where leadership and authority come into play. Here are a few examples:
"Ser el cabecilla de la manada"
To be the leader of the pack.
This expression suggests someone who leads and guides a group, often implying responsibility.
"Poner a alguien como cabecilla"
To position someone as the leader.
This phrase indicates designating someone for a role of leadership.
"Un cabecilla es siempre un objetivo"
A leader is always a target.
This idiom suggests that those in leadership roles often face scrutiny or challenges.
Siempre ha sido el cabecilla de la manada, guiando a sus amigos en los momentos difíciles.
He has always been the leader of the pack, guiding his friends in tough times.
Al poner a Luis como cabecilla del proyecto, se aseguraron de que todo saliera bien.
By positioning Luis as the leader of the project, they ensured everything went smoothly.
En tiempos de crisis, un cabecilla es siempre un objetivo para los críticos.
In times of crisis, a leader is always a target for critics.
The word cabecilla comes from the Spanish root cabeza, meaning "head." The diminutive suffix -illa indicates a smaller or more endearing version, suggesting a sense of leadership but also possibly connoting a less formal or authoritative position than a "cabeza" (head).
Synonyms: - Líder (leader) - Jefe (chief) - Guía (guide)
Antonyms: - Seguidores (followers) - Subordinados (subordinates) - Ocupante (occupant, in the sense of someone who does not lead)
In summary, cabecilla is a versatile noun that denotes a leader or head, with nuance depending on context, and carries both positive and negative connotations based on its usage.