Inklingo

How to Say "administrative" in Spanish

English → Spanish

administrativo

ad-mee-nees-tra-TEE-bohaðministɾaˈtiβo

adjectiveB1general
Use 'administrativo' when referring to the general running of a business, organization, or a routine process that involves paperwork or management tasks.
A neat office desk with a stapler, a folder, and a pen holder.

Examples

El departamento administrativo se encarga de la facturación.

The administrative department is in charge of invoicing.

El proceso administrativo es un poco lento en este país.

The administrative process is a bit slow in this country.

Necesito ayuda con las tareas administrativas de la oficina.

I need help with the administrative tasks of the office.

Hubo un error administrativo y mi vuelo fue cancelado.

There was an administrative error and my flight was canceled.

Matching the Noun

This word must match the gender of the thing it describes. Use 'administrativo' for masculine words (el proceso) and 'administrativa' for feminine words (la tarea).

Positioning

In Spanish, this word usually comes after the person or thing it describes, like 'personal administrativo' instead of 'administrative staff'.

Confusing with 'Administrator'

Mistake: “Soy un administrativo de la empresa.”

Correction: This is correct if you are a clerk, but if you mean you are a 'Manager', you should use 'Administrador'.

administrador

ad-mee-nee-stra-DORaðministɾaˈðoɾ

adjectiveB2general
Choose 'administrador' when referring to a specific role or position that actively manages or oversees something, often implying responsibility for a team or project.
A pair of hands carefully organizing small colorful blocks into neat rows on a desk.

Examples

Él tiene un cargo administrador en el comité.

He holds a managing position on the committee.

Adjective placement

When used as a description, it almost always comes after the thing it describes (the noun).

gestor

hes-TORxesˈtoɾ

adjectiveC1formal
Use 'gestor' for a committee or group specifically tasked with the management or oversight of a particular situation, project, or event.
A small, colorful factory building with smooth gears turning on the side to show it is operating.

Examples

La comisión gestora se encargará de organizar las elecciones.

The management committee will be in charge of organizing the elections.

Buscamos un perfil con gran capacidad gestora.

We are looking for a profile with great management capacity.

Adjective Placement

As an adjective, it usually comes after the noun it describes: 'capacidad gestora' (managing ability).

General vs. Specific Management Roles

Learners often confuse 'administrativo' with 'administrador' or 'gestor'. Remember that 'administrativo' is the broadest term for general operations, while 'administrador' and 'gestor' refer to specific roles or groups actively involved in managing or overseeing.

Related Translations

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