Administrative: meaning, definitions and examples

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administrative

 

[ ədˈmɪnɪstrətɪv ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

office management

Relating to the running of a business or organization

Synonyms

executive, managerial, organizational.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
administrative

This word is often used to describe tasks, duties, or responsibilities related to managing an office or organization, but it typically refers to support activities rather than high-level decision-making.

  • administrative tasks like filing paperwork and scheduling meetings
managerial

Use 'managerial' when referring to tasks or responsibilities related to managing people or projects. It implies oversight, coordination, and supervision, usually at the middle management level.

  • managerial duties like overseeing a team of employees; managerial experience needed for the job
organizational

This word is suitable for describing tasks, roles, or responsibilities associated with structuring, arranging, or coordinating activities within an organization. It focuses on the overall functioning and efficiency of the organization.

  • organizational changes to improve efficiency; organizational skills are essential for this role
executive

This word is best used to describe high-level tasks, roles, or responsibilities that involve decision-making, strategy, and leadership within an organization. It implies authority and seniority.

  • executive decisions regarding company policy; executive roles such as CEO or CFO

Examples of usage

  • It's important to have good administrative skills in order to manage a team effectively.
  • The administrative staff is responsible for handling all the paperwork.
Context #2 | Adjective

government

Relating to the government or public affairs

Synonyms

bureaucratic, governmental, official.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
administrative

Used when referring to the management and organizational tasks within an organization, especially in relation to office work or processes.

  • She handles the administrative tasks for the project
  • The administrative team is responsible for coordinating schedules
governmental

Used when referring to activities, responsibilities, or functions that belong to or are carried out by the government.

  • The policy falls under governmental regulations
  • Governmental agencies are working together to tackle the issue
official

Used to describe something that is formally approved, authorized, or recognized by an authority or organization. It can also refer to a person who holds a position of authority.

  • The official statement was released yesterday
  • He is an official representative of the company
bureaucratic

Typically used to describe a situation where there is excessive red tape, complicated rules, or procedures, often leading to inefficiency. This term often has a negative connotation.

  • The company's bureaucratic procedures make it difficult to get anything done quickly
  • She was frustrated by the bureaucratic red tape when applying for the permit

Examples of usage

  • The new mayor promised to make changes to the administrative policies.
  • She works in an administrative role within the local government.

Translations

Translations of the word "administrative" in other languages:

🇵🇹 administrativo

🇮🇳 प्रशासनिक

🇩🇪 administrativ

🇮🇩 administratif

🇺🇦 адміністративний

🇵🇱 administracyjny

🇯🇵 管理の

🇫🇷 administratif

🇪🇸 administrativo

🇹🇷 idari

🇰🇷 행정의

🇸🇦 إداري

🇨🇿 administrativní

🇸🇰 administratívny

🇨🇳 行政的

🇸🇮 administrativen

🇮🇸 stjórnsýslulegur

🇰🇿 әкімшілік

🇬🇪 ადმინისტრაციული

🇦🇿 inzibati

🇲🇽 administrativo

Etymology

The word 'administrative' comes from the Latin word 'administrativus', which is derived from 'administrare' meaning 'to manage or govern'. The concept of administration has been around for centuries, evolving from the management of affairs in ancient civilizations to the modern bureaucratic structures we see today.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,559, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.