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How to Say "marshal" in Spanish

English → Spanish

mariscal

/mah-ree-SKAHL//maɾisˈkal/

nounB2military, formal
Use 'mariscal' when referring to a high-ranking military officer, often one with significant command authority.
A high-ranking military officer in a formal blue uniform with gold medals and decorative epaulettes.

Examples

El mariscal reunió a sus generales para planificar la próxima batalla.

The marshal gathered his generals to plan the next battle.

El mariscal ordenó la retirada de las tropas.

The marshal ordered the retreat of the troops.

Fue ascendido a mariscal tras la gran victoria.

He was promoted to marshal after the great victory.

Using 'el' with Mariscal

This is a word for a person that uses 'el'. Even if referring to a woman in this high rank, 'el mariscal' was traditionally used, though 'la mariscal' is becoming more common today.

Not for Police

Mistake: “Using 'mariscal' for a US Marshal.”

Correction: Use 'alguacil' or 'comisario' for law enforcement; 'mariscal' is strictly military.

alguacil

ahl-gwah-SEEL/al.ɣwaˈθil/

nounB2governmental, judicial, formal
Use 'alguacil' for an official, often a bailiff or court officer, who carries out duties within a governmental or judicial setting.
A serious-looking court officer, likely a bailiff, wearing a simple uniform inside a wooden courtroom.

Examples

El alguacil anunció la entrada del juez en la sala.

The bailiff announced the judge's entrance into the courtroom.

El alguacil de la corte leyó los cargos en voz alta.

The court bailiff read the charges aloud.

Tuvimos que llamar al alguacil local para resolver la disputa vecinal.

We had to call the local constable to resolve the neighborhood dispute.

El alguacil se encargó de entregar la citación judicial.

The officer was in charge of delivering the court summons.

Gendered Nouns

Since 'alguacil' is a noun referring to a person, you use the masculine article 'el' before it. However, if the person is female, you might hear 'la alguacil' or 'la alguacila' depending on the region, though 'el alguacil' is traditionally used for both.

Confusing with Police

Mistake: “Using 'alguacil' to mean 'any police officer.'”

Correction: 'Alguacil' usually refers to a specific type of officer, often related to courts or local/historical jurisdiction. Use 'policía' for a general police officer.

Military vs. Court Officer

The most common mistake is using 'alguacil' when you mean a military commander. Remember, 'mariscal' is for high-ranking military leaders, while 'alguacil' is typically found in a courtroom or similar official setting.

Related Translations

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