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How to Say "to appoint" in Spanish

English → Spanish

elegir

eh-leh-HEER/e.leˈxiɾ/

verbB2general
Use 'elegir' when referring to the act of selecting or choosing someone for a position, often through a democratic or deliberative process.
A diverse crowd of stylized figures smiling and raising their hands towards a single, central figure standing slightly elevated on a small platform, symbolizing an election.

Examples

El comité elegirá al nuevo director la próxima semana.

The committee will appoint the new director next week.

El pueblo eligió a un nuevo presidente.

The people elected a new president.

Debemos elegir a los miembros de la junta directiva.

We must elect the members of the board of directors.

ordenar

or-deh-NAR/or.ðeˈnaɾ/

verbC1formal
Use 'ordenar' in a more formal or official context, implying a directive or decree to assign someone a specific role or duty, often by an authority.
A solemn religious leader wearing a long, purple stole is laying both hands upon the bowed head of a kneeling figure inside a grand, arched sanctuary, depicting an ordination.

Examples

El rey ordenó a su general que liderara la expedición.

The king appointed his general to lead the expedition.

El sacerdote fue ordenado en la catedral.

The priest was ordained in the cathedral.

Choosing Between 'Elegir' and 'Ordenar'

Learners often confuse 'elegir' and 'ordenar' because both can relate to assigning a role. Remember that 'elegir' implies selection or choice, while 'ordenar' suggests a formal command or decree from a higher authority.

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