How to Say "chancellor" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “chancellor” is “canciller” — use 'canciller' when referring to the head of government in countries like Germany or Austria..
canciller
/kan-see-YAYR//kan.siˈʝer/
Examples
Angela Merkel fue la primera mujer canciller de Alemania.
Angela Merkel was the first female chancellor of Germany.
El canciller de Colombia se reunió con el presidente.
The Colombian foreign minister met with the president.
La nueva canciller prometió mejorar las relaciones exteriores.
The new foreign minister promised to improve foreign relations.
One word, two genders
This word doesn't change its ending. To show if the person is a man or a woman, just change the word 'the' in front: 'el canciller' for a man and 'la canciller' for a woman.
A title of respect
Because this is a high-ranking political title, it is almost always used with 'el' or 'la' when talking about the person, even if you are being somewhat informal.
Avoid adding an 'a' for women
Mistake: “La cancillera”
Correction: La canciller. While some people use 'cancillera' informally, 'la canciller' is the correct and most professional way to refer to a woman in this position.
rector
/rek-tor//rekˈtoɾ/
Examples
El rector de la universidad inauguró el nuevo edificio de ciencias.
The university chancellor inaugurated the new science building.
Los estudiantes solicitaron una reunión con el rector para hablar de las becas.
The students requested a meeting with the president to talk about scholarships.
Para ser rector, se requiere una larga trayectoria académica.
To be a chancellor, a long academic career is required.
Gender and People
When referring to a man, use 'el rector'. For a woman, the word changes to 'la rectora'.
Rector vs. Principal
Mistake: “Using 'rector' for a primary school principal.”
Correction: In Spanish, 'rector' is usually reserved for universities. Use 'director' for K-12 school principals.
Government vs. University Leader
Related Translations
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