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Consulate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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consulate

[ˈkɒnsjʊlət ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

diplomatic office

A consulate is a government office in a foreign city that provides assistance to citizens of its home country.

Synonyms

diplomatic mission, embassy, legation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
consulate

Used to refer to the office of a consul, which deals primarily with individual citizens and business matters such as visas and trade.

  • I went to the Spanish consulate to apply for a visa
  • The consulate provided assistance to citizens traveling abroad
embassy

Refers to the main diplomatic office of one country in the capital of another, typically headed by an ambassador. Embassies handle a wide range of activities including political, economic, and visa services.

  • He works at the American embassy in Berlin
  • The embassy organized a cultural event to celebrate Independence Day
diplomatic mission

A general term used to refer to any foreign representation, including embassies, consulates, and legations, involved in international relations and official duties.

  • The diplomatic mission was tasked with negotiating the treaty
  • Several countries have set up diplomatic missions in the capital
legation

This is an older term, less commonly used today, for a type of diplomatic mission below the rank of an embassy, typically headed by a minister rather than an ambassador.

  • In the 19th century, the United States had a legation in Morocco
  • The legation played a crucial role in early diplomatic relations

Examples of usage

  • The American consulate in Paris assists U.S. citizens living in France.
  • She went to the consulate to renew her passport.
Context #2 | Noun

building

A consulate is also the building where the consul's office is located.

Synonyms

facility, office, premises.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
consulate

Used specifically to refer to the office or building where a consul's duties are performed. Typically mentioned in diplomatic or international relations contexts.

  • She went to the consulate to apply for a visa.
  • The consulate organized a cultural event to celebrate the national day.
office

General term for a room, set of rooms, or building used for business, administrative, or professional work.

  • She spends most of her day working at the office.
  • We need to visit the office to finalize the paperwork.
facility

Refers to a place, usually a building, that provides convenience or services for a specific activity. It can be used in various contexts, from industrial to educational sectors.

  • The new sports facility will be open to the public next month.
  • This facility is equipped with the latest technology for research purposes.
premises

Refers to a house or building together with its grounds, especially in a commercial context. Usually used to denote the physical location of an organization or business.

  • Smoking is not allowed on the premises.
  • The company moved to new premises last year.

Examples of usage

  • The consulate is located in the heart of the city.
  • The consulate building has tight security measures.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'consulate'

The word 'consulate' comes from the Latin word 'consulatus', which refers to the office or residence of a consul. Consuls were the highest elected political office in the Roman Republic. The concept of consulates has evolved over time to represent diplomatic missions in foreign countries.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,899, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.