C1verbformal3K

Designate

UK /["/ˈdezɪɡneɪt/","/ˈdezɪɡneɪts/","/ˈdezɪɡneɪtɪd/","/ˈdezɪɡneɪtɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈdezɪɡneɪt/","/ˈdezɪɡneɪts/","/ˈdezɪɡneɪtɪd/","/ˈdezɪɡneɪtɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to say officially that somebody/something has a particular character or name; to describe somebody/something in a particular way

In simple words: To choose someone or something for a specific role or purpose.

Examples

  • The committee will designate a spokesperson for the press conference.
  • She was designated as the team leader due to her experience.
  • The government designated this area as a national park.
  • They designated several streets for the parade route.
  • The official will designate the person responsible for the project.

Usage notes

Used in formal contexts, often in official settings or documents. Not suitable for casual conversation. Commonly used in legal, academic, or organizational contexts.

Grammar pattern

designate + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'design-ate' — imagine a designer picking a specific color for a project.

Collocations

  • formally
  • officially
  • specially
  • for
  • formally
  • officially
  • specially
  • for

Synonyms

  • appoint
  • nominate
  • assign
  • select
  • identify

Antonyms

  • reject
  • disregard

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'designate' with 'design' which means to create or plan.
  • Using 'designate' as a noun instead of a verb.
  • Incorrectly placing 'designate' before the subject in a sentence.