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encargo

en-CAR-go/enˈkaɾ.ɣo/

“encargo” means “assignment” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:

assignment, task

Also: commission, errand
NounmB1
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.

📝 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

order

Also: purchase order
NounmB1
A small mouse points excitedly at a large, colorful layer cake displayed on a wooden counter, placing an order with a baker cat.

📝 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

Common Collocations

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

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "encargo" in Spanish:

assignment→commission→errand→order→purchase order→task→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: encargo

Question 1 of 1

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

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼

The noun 'encargo' comes directly from the verb 'encargar' (to entrust or charge someone with something). This verb is formed by combining the prefix 'en-' (meaning 'in' or 'on') and 'cargar' (meaning 'to load' or 'to carry'). The original sense is literally 'to place a load or responsibility onto someone.'

First recorded: Medieval Spanish

Cognates (Related words)

Portuguese: encargo

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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.