directorate
- 01 C1 Advanced
a large department in a government or international organization that focuses on one specific area.
a specialized administrative unit or agency, typically a subdivision of a major government department or international body.
Simple“The new directorate for environmental safety will start its work next month.”
In context“The European Commission is divided into several directorates-general, each responsible for a specific policy area such as trade or agriculture.”
UsageOften used in the context of the European Union or large civil service structures.
Synonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
a group of people who are in charge of managing a company or organization.
the collective body of directors or executives responsible for the governance and strategic management of an organization.
Simple“The directorate met yesterday to discuss the company's budget for next year.”
In context“The corporate directorate faced intense scrutiny from shareholders following the announcement of the failed merger.”
UsageCommonly used in business and legal contexts to refer to the group as a single entity.
Synonyms
“The Spanish General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has announced a new change, which will come into effect on October 1st, 2026.”
“Managed by Caltech in Pasadena, JPL built Curiosity and leads the mission on behalf of NASA's Science Mission Directorate in Washington as part of the agency's Mars Exploration Program portfolio.”
From director + -ate.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.