How to Say "headship" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “headship” is “jefatura” — use 'jefatura' when referring to the formal position or office of being in charge, such as the head of a department or the leadership of an organization.
jefatura
heh-fah-TOO-rahxefaˈtuɾa
Examples
Ella asumió la jefatura del departamento el mes pasado.
She took over the headship of the department last month.
Bajo su jefatura, la empresa creció mucho.
Under his leadership, the company grew a lot.
La jefatura decidió cambiar el horario de trabajo.
The management decided to change the work schedule.
Always Feminine
Even if the boss is a man, the word 'jefatura' is always feminine ('la jefatura').
The '-ura' Ending
In Spanish, the ending '-ura' is often used to turn a person (jefe) into a position or a role (jefatura).
Confusing the person with the role
Mistake: “Hablé con la jefatura sobre mi aumento.”
Correction: Hablé con el jefe sobre mi aumento.
liderazgo
lee-der-AHS-goliðeˈɾasɣo
Examples
Ella demostró un gran liderazgo durante la crisis.
She showed great leadership during the crisis.
El equipo necesita un nuevo liderazgo para ganar.
The team needs new leadership to win.
Bajo su liderazgo, la empresa creció mucho.
Under his leadership, the company grew a lot.
Masculine Ending
Even though it ends in 'o', it follows the standard rule of being a masculine noun. Always use 'el' or 'un' with it.
The '-azgo' Pattern
The ending '-azgo' is often used in Spanish to turn a person's role into a concept or status, similar to how English uses '-ship' in 'leadership' or 'friendship'.
Person vs. Concept
Mistake: “Using 'el liderazgo' to refer to a person.”
Correction: Use 'el líder' for the person and 'el liderazgo' for the concept or the position.
Jefatura vs. Liderazgo
Related Translations
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