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How to Say "leaders" in Spanish

English → Spanish

líderes

nounA2general
Use 'líderes' when referring to people who guide, direct, or are in charge of a group, organization, or movement, especially in formal or general contexts.

Examples

Los líderes de la empresa anunciaron recortes.

The company leaders announced cuts.

cabezas

kah-BEH-sas/kaˈβeθas/

nounA1informal
Use 'cabezas' informally to refer to the key people or individuals responsible for organizing or leading a task, often implying a more hands-on or collective effort.
A simple drawing of three distinct human heads, clearly separated, emphasizing them as body parts.

Examples

Necesitamos tres cabezas para cargar la mesa.

We need three people/heads to carry the table.

Las cabezas de la organización se reunirán mañana.

The leaders of the organization will meet tomorrow.

El granjero cuenta con veinte cabezas de ganado.

The farmer has twenty head of cattle.

Gender and Number

This word is the plural of the feminine noun 'cabeza.' Even if you are referring to a group of men, the noun remains feminine: 'las cabezas.'

Referring to people

Mistake: “Usar 'cabezas' para referirse a la gente en general (e.g., 'hay muchas cabezas').”

Correction: While correct, it sounds formal or like counting livestock. Use 'gente' (people) or 'personas' instead for general crowds.

Don't use 'cabezas' for formal leadership

The most common mistake is using 'cabezas' in formal situations where 'líderes' is clearly expected. While 'cabezas' can mean 'leaders' informally, it's often more literal and can sound strange or even disrespectful in professional or political contexts.

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