consulate
word
Definition
A consulate is the office or building where a consul works, representing their country in a foreign city, mostly to help and protect citizens and handle official paperwork.
Usage & Nuances
Used formally and in legal/diplomatic situations. Not the same as 'embassy': an embassy is in a capital and handles higher-level diplomacy, while a consulate is in major cities for citizen services and local support. Common collocations: 'go to the consulate', 'consulate staff', 'American consulate', 'apply at the consulate'.
Example Sentences
You need to contact the consulate for a visa appointment.
basic
After losing my wallet, I had to spend hours at the consulate.
natural
They're hiring new staff at the French consulate next month.
natural
People often confuse an embassy with a consulate, but they're not the same.
natural
I went to the consulate to renew my passport.
basic
The American consulate is in the city center.
basic