Sous-préfet (en. Sub-prefect)

/su.pʁe.fɛ/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
State agent responsible for an arrondissement.
The sous-prefect organized a meeting to discuss local projects.
Le sous-préfet a organisé une réunion pour discuter des projets locaux.
Official in charge of supervising the application of laws and regulations.
It is important for the sous-prefect to be present at the inauguration.
Il est important que le sous-préfet soit présent lors de l'inauguration.
Intermediary between citizens and the administration.
Citizens can address the sous-prefect if needed.
Les citoyens peuvent s'adresser au sous-préfet en cas de besoin.

Etymology

The word 'sous-préfet' comes from French, literally meaning 'one who is under the prefect.'

Common Phrases and Expressions

departmental sous-prefect
Representative of the state at the departmental level.
sous-préfet de département
arrondissement sous-prefect
Local authority in a specific arrondissement.
sous-préfet de l'arrondissement

Related Words

prefect
Administrative authority superior to that of the sous-prefect.
préfet
prefecture
Administration directed by a prefect.
préfecture
arrondissement
Administrative division within a department.
arrondissement

Slang Meanings

Honorific title often used sarcastically.
He thinks he's a sous-prefect with all his rules.
Il se prend pour un sous-préfet avec toutes ses règles.
Informal designation for a person who controls their environment too much.
Don't act like a sous-prefect, leave us alone.
Ne fais pas ton sous-préfet, laisse-nous tranquille.