Consignment: meaning, definitions and examples
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consignment
[ kənˈsaɪnmənt ]
logistics
A batch of goods destined for a single recipient or delivery address, typically transported together.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| consignment |
The term 'consignment' is often used in business contexts where goods are sent to a consignee (person or company) for sale. The consignee does not pay for the goods until they are sold.
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| shipment |
'Shipment' is used to describe a batch of goods being sent, often by freight, and can be used in various stages of the supply chain. It is broader than 'delivery' and often used in a business or industrial context.
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| delivery |
'Delivery' is used when referring to the act of transporting or distributing goods to a particular location, often directly to a customer. This term is common in retail and e-commerce.
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| cargo |
'Cargo' refers to goods or products that are transported, typically in large quantities, by ship, plane, or another vehicle. It's commonly used in the logistics and shipping industries.
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Examples of usage
- The consignment of electronics was shipped to the warehouse for distribution.
- The consignment of clothing arrived at the store earlier than expected.
legal
A batch of goods sent by a seller to a buyer on approval and on condition that the buyer only pays for what is sold.
Synonyms
allocation, assignment, commission.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| consignment |
Use this word when referring to a shipment of goods that are sent somewhere, typically to be sold or stored.
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| commission |
Use this word when talking about a formal request to produce or provide something, especially a work of art, or when referring to a fee paid to someone for their services.
|
| assignment |
Use this word when referring to tasks or duties that are given to someone as part of their job or studies.
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| allocation |
Use this word when talking about distributing resources or responsibilities among different people or projects.
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Examples of usage
- The consignment of jewelry was sent to the boutique on a sale or return basis.
- The consignment of artwork was on consignment with the gallery for the upcoming exhibit.
Translations
Translations of the word "consignment" in other languages:
🇵🇹 remessa
🇮🇳 प्रेषण
🇩🇪 Sendung
🇮🇩 pengiriman
🇺🇦 вантаж
- відправка
- консигнація
🇵🇱 przesyłka
🇯🇵 発送
🇫🇷 envoi
🇪🇸 envío
🇹🇷 gönderi
🇰🇷 배송
🇸🇦 شحنة
🇨🇿 zásilka
🇸🇰 zásielka
🇨🇳 发货
🇸🇮 pošiljka
🇮🇸 sending
🇰🇿 жөнелту
🇬🇪 გაგზავნა
🇦🇿 göndərmə
🇲🇽 envío
Etymology
The word 'consignment' originated in the late 16th century from the French word 'consigner', meaning 'to entrust'. It initially referred to the act of consigning goods to a person. Over time, the term evolved to specifically denote a batch of goods sent for sale or distribution. The concept of consignment has been integral to trade and commerce for centuries, allowing sellers to reach broader markets and buyers to access a variety of products.