Definition

Noun: - A member of a legation: An "official emissary" is a person who is officially sent, usually by a government or head of state, to represent them and conduct business in another country or with another party. This person is a formal member of a diplomatic mission known as a legation.

Usage

• This term is used in formal, diplomatic, and political contexts to refer to an accredited representative.
• It specifically denotes a person who is part of a legation, which is a diplomatic mission headed by a minister, ranking below an embassy.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• The term emphasizes the official and credentialed status of the representative, distinguishing them from informal messengers or unofficial contacts.
• It is often used in historical contexts or in discussions of formal diplomatic protocols.

Variants and Related Words

• Emissary (n): A person sent on a special mission, usually as a diplomatic representative. (A broader term; an "official emissary" is a specific type of emissary).
• Legate (n): An official emissary, especially a representative of the Pope.
• Envoy (n): A messenger or representative, especially one on a diplomatic mission.

Synonyms

• Diplomatic agent
• Envoy
• Legate
• Representative

Antonyms

• Unofficial contact
• Private citizen
• Interloper

Related Phrases/Idioms

• To serve as an emissary: To act in the role of an official representative.
  • He served as an emissary between the two warring factions.

Noun

1. a member of a legation