Meaning
Designate has two main uses:
-
Verb: To officially choose, appoint, or assign someone or something for a specific role, position, or purpose. Example: The committee designated her as the new chairperson.
-
Adjective (usually after a noun): Referring to someone who has been appointed to a position but has not yet officially started. Example: The president-designate will take office next month.
Grammar and Usage
-
Verb form: designate sb (as) sth → They designated him (as) team leader. designate sth for sth → This area was designated for wildlife protection. designate that... → The law designates that the funds must be used for education.
-
Adjective form: Used after the noun: manager-designate, ambassador-designate.
-
Verb type: Transitive verb (requires an object).
Common Phrases
- designate someone as → to appoint a role
- designate someone to do something → to assign responsibility
- designate area/place → officially mark for a purpose
- president-designate / minister-designate → official but not yet in office
Collocations
- designate someone as leader/chairperson/representative
- designate an area for development/conservation
- designate a time/date/place
- designate responsibilities/tasks
Examples
- The company designated her as the spokesperson for the new project.
- This park has been designated as a World Heritage Site.
- The president-designate will assume office after the inauguration ceremony.
- The teacher designated specific seats for the exam.
- The law designates that minors cannot buy alcohol.
- He was designated to represent the team at the international conference.
- That section of the building is designated for staff only.
- The newly designated manager will start next week.
Synonyms or Related
- Verb: appoint, assign, nominate, choose, name, select
- Adjective: appointed, chosen, selected, nominated