decreto

/deˈkɾeto/
nounIntermediate
⚖️Law
formal

A formal order or regulation issued by a government authority, typically by a president, governor, or other high-ranking official, with the force of law.

El presidente firmó un decreto para combatir la corrupción.

The president signed a decree to combat corruption.

El decreto entró en vigor el primer día del mes siguiente.

The decree came into effect on the first day of the following month.

💡

Decretos are often used in emergency situations or to implement policies quickly without going through the full legislative process.

Collocations

firmar un decretoto sign a decreepromulgar un decretoto promulgate a decreeanular un decretoto annul a decree

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

decreto leyphrase
a decree with the force of law, often used in emergency situations
decreto ejecutivophrase
an executive decree issued by the head of government

💡Pro Tip

Legal Context

In legal contexts, 'decreto' is often used interchangeably with 'ley' (law), but decrees are typically temporary or specific in scope.

Gold Rule

Formal Usage

Always use 'decreto' in formal or legal contexts; avoid in casual conversation.

📖Word Origin

From Latin 'decretum', meaning 'decree' or 'judgment', derived from 'decernere' (to decide or determine).

📝Usage Notes

In Spanish-speaking countries, decrees are often used for executive actions, while laws (leyes) require legislative approval.

Word Breakdown

de-
intensifier or prefix indicating a formal act
prefix
+
-creto
from Latin 'creare' (to create or decide)
root
Diccionario Español-Inglés