portavoz
“portavoz” means “spokesperson” in Spanish (A person who speaks on behalf of a group or organization.).
spokesperson
Also: mouthpiece, representative
📝 In Action
Ella es la portavoz oficial del gobierno.
B1She is the official government spokesperson.
Necesitamos elegir un portavoz para que hable con el jefe.
B2We need to choose a spokesperson to talk to the boss.
El portavoz del sindicato anunció la huelga.
C1The union spokesperson announced the strike.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: portavoz
Question 1 of 3
What is the correct plural form of 'portavoz'?
📚 More Resources
📚 Etymology▼
A compound word made from 'portar' (to carry) and 'voz' (voice). It literally describes someone who 'carries the voice' of others.
First recorded: 19th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'vocero' instead of 'portavoz'?
Yes! Both are correct. 'Vocero' is much more common in Latin America, while 'portavoz' is the standard in Spain, though both are understood everywhere.
Is 'portavoz' formal?
It is a neutral to formal word. You'll hear it in news reports or professional settings, but it's not so stiff that you couldn't use it in a normal conversation about a club or group.
Does 'portavoz' ever mean a megaphone?
No. While it sounds like it might (carrying voice), a megaphone is called an 'altavoz' (literally 'high voice'). Don't mix them up!