Inklingo

How to Say "errand" in Spanish

English → Spanish

comisión

nounA2general
Use 'comisión' when the errand involves a specific task or job, often one that is assigned to you or that you are responsible for completing.

Examples

Tengo que hacer una comisión al centro antes de comer.

I have to run an errand downtown before lunch.

mandado

/man-DAH-doh//manˈdaðo/

nounA2general
Choose 'mandado' for a small, often quick task that requires you to go to a specific place, like the grocery store or the pharmacy.
A small child dressed in bright clothes walking and carrying a brown paper bag filled with groceries, representing a simple task or errand.

Examples

Necesito hacer un mandado rápido a la farmacia.

I need to run a quick errand to the pharmacy.

El niño se fue a entregar el mandado a casa de la vecina.

The boy went to deliver the message/goods to the neighbor's house.

Ya compré todo el mandado, solo falta guardarlo.

I already bought all the groceries, I just need to put them away.

Always Masculine

Even though 'errand' is a concept, mandado is a masculine noun, so use the article el or un.

Using the wrong verb

Mistake: “Voy a correr un mandado.”

Correction: Voy a hacer un mandado. (Use *hacer* 'to do/make', not *correr* 'to run', when describing the action of the errand.)

encargo

en-CAR-go/enˈkaɾ.ɣo/

nounB1general
Use 'encargo' when the errand is a specific assignment or request given to you by someone else, implying a level of responsibility.
A cheerful rabbit hands a rolled-up blueprint tied with a red ribbon to a smiling fox, symbolizing the transfer of an assignment or duty.

Examples

Mi jefe me dio el encargo de organizar la reunión.

My boss gave me the assignment of organizing the meeting.

¿Puedes hacer un encargo por mí? Necesito ir al banco.

Can you run an errand for me? I need to go to the bank.

El pintor terminó el encargo de la familia real.

The painter finished the commission for the royal family.

Masculine Noun Rule

Since 'encargo' ends in -o, it is a masculine noun. Always use the masculine article 'el' or 'un' with it.

Confusing 'encargo' and 'cargo'

Mistake: “Using 'cargo' (position/job title) when you mean 'encargo' (specific task).”

Correction: If you are talking about a specific duty or task, use 'encargo'. If you are talking about a permanent job title (like 'manager'), use 'cargo'.

Comisión vs. Mandado

Learners often confuse 'comisión' and 'mandado' because both can refer to simple tasks. Remember that 'mandado' usually implies a quick trip for something you need, while 'comisión' can be a slightly more formal task or job you've been given.

Related Translations

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