Inklingo

How to Say "administration" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “administration” is “administración” — use 'administración' when referring to the general concept or process of managing resources, finances, or a system, or the department responsible for this..

English → Spanish

administración

nounB1general
Use 'administración' when referring to the general concept or process of managing resources, finances, or a system, or the department responsible for this.

Examples

La administración de la empresa busca mejorar la eficiencia.

The company's administration seeks to improve efficiency.

administración

nounB2general
Use 'administración' when referring to a specific governing body, especially in politics or business.

Examples

La administración actual enfrenta muchos desafíos.

The current administration faces many challenges.

gobierno

/go-BYEHR-no//ɡoˈβjeɾ.no/

nounA2general
Use 'gobierno' when specifically referring to the group of people who officially control a country or state, or a regional government.
A colorful storybook illustration of a large, sturdy ship sailing smoothly on the ocean, steered by a figure holding a large wheel, symbolizing the institution that runs a country.

Examples

El gobierno aprobó una nueva ley.

The government approved a new law.

El gobierno anunció nuevas medidas económicas.

The government announced new economic measures.

Trabajo para el gobierno federal.

I work for the federal government.

El nuevo gobierno tomará posesión la próxima semana.

The new government (administration) will take office next week.

Always Masculine: 'el gobierno'

Even though it ends in '-o', which is usually a good sign for masculine words, it's helpful to just memorize that 'gobierno' is always masculine. You'll always say 'el gobierno' or 'un gobierno'.

Confusing 'Gobierno' and 'Estado'

Mistake: “El estado anunció nuevas leyes.”

Correction: El gobierno anunció nuevas leyes. 'Gobierno' refers to the people currently in charge (the administration), who make announcements. 'Estado' is the whole country and its permanent systems (courts, military, etc.).

Administración vs. Gobierno

Learners often confuse 'administración' and 'gobierno' when talking about political power. While 'administración' can refer to a government, 'gobierno' is the more direct and common term for the ruling political entity of a country or state.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.