Pronunciation: [ɒfˈɪʃə͡l] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "oficial" is often mistakenly written as "official." The correct spelling is "oficial" with only one "f." The reason for the confusion in spelling is due to the similar-sounding pronunciation of the two words. The IPA phonetic transcription for "oficial" is /o.fi.ˈsi.al/, which is pronounced oh-fee-see-al. Remember to use the correct spelling to avoid confusion in written communication.
"Oficial" is an adjective in the Spanish language that is commonly translated as "official" in English. It refers to something or someone that is authorized, approved, or sanctioned by an organization, government, or authority to perform a particular role, duty, or function.
When used to describe a person, "oficial" typically denotes someone who holds a position of authority, responsibility, or importance within an organization or institution. This can include government officials, such as politicians or civil servants, as well as individuals in significant roles within private companies or non-profit organizations.
In the context of documents or procedures, "oficial" indicates that something is legally or formally recognized. For instance, an "acta oficial" would be an official record or document, while a "traductor oficial" refers to an officially recognized or authorized translator.
Moreover, "oficial" can also be used to refer to something that is characteristic of an official or formal environment, such as official procedures, official communication, or official channels. It conveys the notion of being legitimate, recognized, or valid within the context it is used.
Overall, the term "oficial" indicates the authorized, legitimate, or formal nature of a person, position, role, document, or procedure within an organizational or governmental structure.
The word "oficial" has its origins in Latin. It comes from the Latin word "officīālis", which is derived from the noun "officium", meaning "duty" or "service". In Latin, "officium" referred to the responsibility or role of performing specific tasks within an organization or state. Over time, "officīālis" evolved into the Old French word "official", and later into English as "official". In Spanish, "official" transformed into "oficial", maintaining a similar meaning which refers to someone who holds a recognized position or authority in an organization or government.
