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How to Say "syndicate" in Spanish

English → Spanish

cartel

kar-TELkaɾˈtel

nounB2criminal, informal
Use 'cartel' when referring to an organized group, especially one involved in illegal activities like drug trafficking or crime.
A clandestine meeting of three figures wearing simple dark suits, standing close together and exchanging a plain black briefcase in a dimly lit, secretive setting.

Examples

Las autoridades lograron desmantelar el cartel de drogas.

The authorities managed to dismantle the drug cartel.

El líder del cartel fue capturado en la frontera.

The leader of the cartel was captured at the border.

Shared Terminology

This meaning is a cognate, meaning it sounds similar and has the same meaning in English. It refers to a powerful, often illegal, organization.

consorcio

kon-SOR-syokonˈsoɾsjo

nounB2formal, business
Use 'consorcio' when referring to a group or consortium formed for a specific legitimate purpose, such as a business venture or a construction project.
A group of diverse professionals in suits standing together in a circle, shaking hands and smiling.

Examples

El consorcio internacional construirá el nuevo puente.

The international consortium will build the new bridge.

Tres bancos formaron un consorcio para financiar el proyecto.

Three banks formed a business group to fund the project.

Este consorcio controla la mayor parte de la energía del país.

This consortium controls most of the country's energy.

A Group Word

Even though a 'consorcio' is made of many companies, it is a singular word. Use 'el' and singular verbs (e.g., 'el consorcio es', not 'son').

The 'del' Shortcut

When saying 'of the consortium', remember that 'de' + 'el' always becomes 'del'.

Don't use for small groups

Mistake: “Ayer hice un consorcio con mis amigos para cenar.”

Correction: Ayer hice un grupo con mis amigos para cenar. 'Consorcio' is almost always for formal business or legal associations.

Cartel vs. Consorcio

Learners often confuse 'cartel' and 'consorcio' by using 'cartel' for any group, even legitimate ones. Remember that 'cartel' strongly implies criminal activity, while 'consorcio' is for business or project groups.

Related Translations

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