Inklingo

subsecretario

sub-seh-kreh-TAH-ryoh/subsekɾeˈtaɾjo/

subsecretario means undersecretary in Spanish (government official).

undersecretary

Also: deputy secretary, assistant secretary
NounmB2formal
General
A government official sitting at a large wooden desk with a stack of papers and a small flag, looking professional.

📝 In Action

El subsecretario de salud dio una conferencia de prensa hoy.

B1

The undersecretary of health gave a press conference today.

Para trabajar en el ministerio, primero debes hablar con el subsecretario.

B2

To work at the ministry, first you must speak with the undersecretary.

El presidente nombró a un nuevo subsecretario de relaciones exteriores.

C1

The president appointed a new undersecretary of foreign relations.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • viceministro (vice-minister)
  • delegado (delegate)

Antonyms

Common Collocations

  • subsecretario de Estadoundersecretary of State
  • nombrar subsecretarioto appoint an undersecretary
  • el cargo de subsecretariothe position of undersecretary

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "subsecretario" in Spanish:

assistant secretarydeputy secretaryundersecretary

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: subsecretario

Question 1 of 3

Where would you most likely meet a 'subsecretario'?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family
🎵 Rhymes
📚 Etymology

From the Latin prefix 'sub-' (under) combined with 'secretarius' (a person entrusted with secrets or confidential matters).

First recorded: 18th century

Cognates (Related words)

English: subsecretaryFrench: sous-secrétaire

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 'subsecretario' the same as a 'secretary' (assistant)?

No. In this context, it refers to a high-level government executive, similar to a Vice Minister, not a personal assistant who answers phones.

How do I address a subsecretario formally?

You would usually address them as 'Señor Subsecretario' (Mr. Undersecretary) or 'Usted' in a conversation.

Is this word used in business?

Rarely. In the business world, terms like 'subdirector' or 'vicepresidente' are much more common. 'Subsecretario' is almost exclusively for government or large public institutions.