consejo

Consejo is a Spanish word with two primary meanings. In everyday language, it denotes advice or guidance given to someone, as in recibir un consejo or seguir un consejo. It can refer to a useful hint, tip, or recommendation for a course of action. The term comes from Latin consilium, meaning a plan, deliberation, or council.

In a governmental or organizational context, consejo denotes a formal body of people authorized to advise, deliberate, or govern. Examples include the municipal council (consejo municipal), regional or national councils, and boards such as the consejo de administración (board of directors). In many countries, ministries and cabinets are described using phrases like consejo de ministros, while other states maintain a consejo de Estado as a consultative or advisory entity. The exact structure, competences, and naming vary by country and jurisdiction.

The word is common across Spanish-speaking regions, with local variations in usage. Related terms include consejero (an adviser), consejería (an office, department, or advisory role), and concejo, a variant used in some regions to denote a local council or assembly. In religious or cultural contexts, councils or assemblies may also be referred to as consejos.

Overall, consejo reflects both a practical notion of advice and a formal institution charged with advisory or decision-making duties, depending on context.