How to Say "delegate" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “delegate” is “representante” — use this for a general official sent to a conference, meeting, or congress, representing a group or entity.
representante
reh-preh-sehn-TAHN-tehre.pɾe.senˈtan.te
Examples
Cada estado envía un representante al congreso.
Each state sends a representative to the congress.
Necesitas hablar con el representante de servicio al cliente.
You need to speak with the customer service representative.
La representante legal de la empresa firmó los documentos.
The company's legal representative signed the documents.
Gender Flexibility
This noun's form ('representante') never changes, regardless of whether the person is male or female. You simply change the article: 'el representante' (male) or 'la representante' (female).
Confusing 'Representante' and 'Representación'
Mistake: “Using 'la representante' when you mean the concept of 'representation' (la representación).”
Correction: 'Representante' is the person. 'Representación' is the act or concept. 'La representación de los trabajadores es crucial.'
delegado
deh-leh-GAH-dohdeleˈɣaðo
Examples
Juan fue elegido delegado de su clase.
Juan was elected as his class representative.
El delegado sindical habló con los trabajadores sobre el nuevo contrato.
The union delegate spoke with the workers about the new contract.
Los delegados internacionales se reunirán mañana para votar.
The international delegates will meet tomorrow to vote.
People and Gender
This word refers to a male person. To talk about a female representative, use 'la delegada' instead.
Acting for Others
Think of a 'delegado' as a bridge; they are chosen to carry the voice and decisions of a larger group to a higher level.
Don't confuse with 'delegación'
Mistake: “Hablé con la delegado.”
Correction: Hablé con el delegado (for a man) or Hablé con la delegada (for a woman). Use 'delegación' for the group or the office, not the person.
comisionado
koh-mee-syo-NAH-dohkomisjoˈnaðo
Examples
El comisionado de derechos humanos investigará las denuncias.
The human rights commissioner will investigate the complaints.
Nombraron un comisionado especial para supervisar la obra.
They appointed a special delegate to oversee the work.
Gender Matching
When referring to a woman, the word changes to 'comisionada' (feminine). The ending must always match the gender of the person.
enviado
en-vee-AH-doenˈbjaðo
Examples
El enviado especial llegó a la capital para negociar la paz.
The special envoy arrived in the capital to negotiate peace.
Los enviados de la ONU supervisaron la votación.
The UN delegates supervised the vote.
Referring to People
When 'enviado' is used as a noun, it means a person who has been sent on an official mission. Note that the female form is 'enviada'.
comisario
koh-mee-SAH-ree-ohko.miˈsa.ɾjo
Examples
El comisario europeo presentó un nuevo reglamento de protección de datos.
The European Commissioner presented a new data protection regulation.
Actuó como comisario para asegurar la transparencia del proceso.
He acted as commissioner to ensure the transparency of the process.
legado
leh-GAH-dohleˈɣa.ðo
Examples
El legado fue enviado a negociar un tratado de paz.
The envoy was sent to negotiate a peace treaty.
El Papa nombró un legado para supervisar la diócesis.
The Pope appointed a legate (representative) to oversee the diocese.
Historical Context
This meaning is often used when discussing historical missions, diplomatic titles, or church history, where the person is 'sent' to represent a higher authority.
Delegado vs. Representante
Related Translations
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