Inklingo
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encargo

/en-CAR-go/

assignment

A cheerful rabbit hands a rolled-up blueprint tied with a red ribbon to a smiling fox, symbolizing the transfer of an assignment or duty.

An assignment (encargo) is a specific piece of work or duty given to someone.

encargo(noun)

mB1

assignment

?

a piece of work or duty

,

task

?

a specific job

Also:

commission

?

a formal mission or project

,

errand

?

a short trip for a specific purpose

📝 In Action

Mi jefe me dio el encargo de organizar la reunión.

B1

My boss gave me the assignment of organizing the meeting.

¿Puedes hacer un encargo por mí? Necesito ir al banco.

A2

Can you run an errand for me? I need to go to the bank.

El pintor terminó el encargo de la familia real.

B2

The painter finished the commission for the royal family.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • tarea (task, homework)
  • misión (mission)

Common Collocations

  • hacer un encargo – to run an errand / to carry out a task
  • recibir un encargo – to receive an assignment

💡 Grammar Points

Masculine Noun Rule

Since 'encargo' ends in -o, it is a masculine noun. Always use the masculine article 'el' or 'un' with it.

❌ Common Pitfalls

Confusing 'encargo' and 'cargo'

Mistake: "Using 'cargo' (position/job title) when you mean 'encargo' (specific task)."

Correction: If you are talking about a specific duty or task, use 'encargo'. If you are talking about a permanent job title (like 'manager'), use 'cargo'.

⭐ Usage Tips

Using 'hacer'

The most common verb to pair with 'encargo' when talking about completing a task or running an errand is 'hacer' (to do/make).

A small mouse points excitedly at a large, colorful layer cake displayed on a wooden counter, placing an order with a baker cat.

An order (encargo) is a formal request for goods or services.

encargo(noun)

mB1

order

?

a request for goods or services

Also:

purchase order

?

formal commercial order

📝 In Action

Nuestro encargo de muebles llegará la próxima semana.

B1

Our furniture order will arrive next week.

Ya envié el encargo a la fábrica, solo falta que lo confirmen.

B2

I already sent the order to the factory; they just need to confirm it.

Este encargo tardará dos días en ser preparado.

A2

This order will take two days to be prepared.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • pedido (order (general))
  • solicitud (request)

Common Collocations

  • recoger un encargo – to pick up an order
  • preparar un encargo – to prepare an order

💡 Grammar Points

Using 'Pedido' vs. 'Encargo'

'Pedido' is the most common word for a general order (like food delivery). 'Encargo' often implies a slightly more complex or formal order, or one that requires customization (like a special cake or commissioned art).

✏️ Quick Practice

💡 Quick Quiz: encargo

Question 1 of 1

Which sentence uses 'encargo' in the sense of a commercial 'order'?

📚 More Resources

Word Family

encargar(to entrust, to order) - verb
encargado(person in charge, manager) - noun/adjective

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'encargo' the same as 'pedido'?

They are very similar! Both mean 'order.' 'Pedido' is generally used for simple, everyday orders (like ordering food). 'Encargo' often implies a task, a special request, or a more customized/formal order (like commissioning a painting or ordering custom furniture), but they are often interchangeable, especially in Latin America.