Delegate: Definition and Synonyms
Delegate – Definition and Part of Speech
The word delegate can be used both as a noun and a verb. As a verb, it means to entrust or authorize someone to act on one’s behalf. As a noun, it refers to a person authorized to represent others, often in a conference or meeting.
Core Synonyms (Table Format)
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assign | To allocate or allot work/tasks; less formal than “delegate.” | “She assigned the new project to her team.” | Business/Formal |
| Empower | Granting authority or power, often with a focus on enabling others. | “The manager empowered employees to make decisions independently.” | Formal/Inspirational |
| Commission | To formally charge or authorize someone to do something specific; formal and somewhat old-fashioned. | “He was commissioned to lead the investigation.” | Academic/Formal |
| Designate | To officially appoint or identify someone for a role; often used in official contexts. | “She was designated as the spokesperson for the event.” | Formal/Official |
| Entrust | To give something into another’s care with confidence in their responsibility; emphasizes trust. | “The CEO entrusted the task to a skilled manager.” | Literary/Formal |
Usage Notes
- Assign: Commonly used in business settings where tasks are distributed among team members, emphasizing organization rather than representation.
- Empower: Frequently appears in leadership and motivational contexts, highlighting the importance of giving people control over their responsibilities.
- Commission: Typically found in legal or official documentation, referring to a formal appointment for specific duties.
- Designate: Often used when someone is selected or appointed for a particular role within an organization; suggests official recognition.
- Entrust: Conveys a sense of trust and responsibility, often utilized where confidence in another’s capabilities is emphasized.
Common Pitfalls
- Confusing “delegate” with “assign”: While both involve giving responsibilities, delegating typically implies entrusting tasks to someone who then makes decisions on behalf of the one delegating.
- Using overly formal synonyms in casual contexts: Words like “commission” or “designate” might seem out of place in everyday conversation due to their formality.
Final Recap
The key synonyms for delegate include assign, empower, commission, designate, and entrust. Each carries its own nuance—ranging from the formal authority suggested by “commission,” to the trust inherent in “entrust.” Understanding these differences allows for precise communication, enhancing clarity across various contexts.
To solidify your grasp of these synonyms, try using them in different sentences or engage in conversation scenarios where each might be appropriate. Practicing their use will help you expand your vocabulary and communicate more effectively.