Understanding the Distinct Roles: Minister and Administer Explained

Minister vs. Administer

Sometimes, words can look or sound alike, but they have different meanings. Today, we will learn about two such words: minister and administer. These words both come from Latin, but they are used differently in English.

Word History

The word minister comes from the Latin word “minister”, meaning “servant”. It has been used in English since the 1300s. On the other hand, administer comes from the Latin “administrare”, meaning “to help or manage”. This word has been in English since the 1400s.

How to Use “Minister”

The word minister is mostly used as a noun, meaning a person who helps with religious work or government duties. It can also mean to give help in a caring way when used as a verb.

Example Sentences for “Minister”

• The minister gave a speech at the church.
• Our country’s foreign minister met with leaders from other nations.
• She wants to become a minister when she grows up.
• The minister helped the community by organizing food drives.
• He was chosen as the new minister of education.

How to Use “Administer”

The word administer is a verb, meaning to manage or take charge of something. It can also mean to give out medicine or a test.

Example Sentences for “Administer”

• The nurse will administer the medicine to the patient.
• The principal administers the rules in our school.
• He administered the test to the students.
• The doctor will administer the vaccine carefully.
• The coach administers the training sessions each week.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Here is a simple way to remember: Minister often refers to a person or the act of helping, especially in religious or government settings. Administer is an action word (verb) and focuses on managing or giving out something.

Summary

Both words are helpful, but they mean different things. Use minister to talk about people helping in religion or government, and use administer when talking about managing or giving out things like medicine or rules.