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How to Say "delegate" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “delegate” is “representante” — use this general term for any official sent to represent a group, organization, or country at a conference, meeting, or similar event..

English → Spanish

representante

reh-preh-sehn-TAHN-teh/re.pɾe.senˈtan.te/

nounA2official
Use this general term for any official sent to represent a group, organization, or country at a conference, meeting, or similar event.
A person in professional attire standing between a crowd of diverse individuals and a large building entrance, holding a simple blue banner, symbolizing their role as a representative.

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.'

comisionado

koh-mee-syo-NAH-doh/komisjoˈnaðo/

nounB2official
Choose this word for an appointed representative, often with specific authority or responsibility, such as in human rights or a special commission.
A formally dressed official, likely a commissioner, sitting confidently behind a large wooden desk in a bright office. A prominent, decorative governmental seal is visible on the wall.

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.

comisario

koh-mee-SAH-ree-oh/ko.miˈsa.ɾjo/

nounC1official
This term refers to a high-ranking official representative, often with significant authority or a specific portfolio, like a European Commissioner.
A professional-looking person in a dark suit sitting at a large wooden table, signing an official document with a fountain pen.

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-doh/leˈɣa.ðo/

nounC1official
Use this word for an official representative, especially one sent on a specific mission, like a diplomat or envoy negotiating a treaty.
A formally dressed diplomat standing professionally, holding a rolled-up parchment scroll tied with a ribbon.

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.

General vs. Specific Roles

Learners often use 'representante' too broadly or 'comisario'/'comisionado' interchangeably. Remember that 'representante' is the most general, while 'comisario' and 'comisionado' imply a more specific, appointed role with greater authority or a defined portfolio.

Related Translations

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