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Consignment: meaning, definitions and examples

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consignment

 

[kənˈsaɪnmənt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

logistics

A batch of goods destined for a single recipient or delivery address, typically transported together.

Synonyms

cargo, delivery, shipment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

  • The store received a consignment of new clothes for the summer season.
  • The artist sent a consignment of paintings to the gallery.
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.

  • The factory is preparing a large shipment of toys for the holiday season.
  • They tracked the shipment to ensure it arrived safely.
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.

  • The pizza delivery should arrive within 30 minutes.
  • She received a delivery of fresh flowers for her birthday.
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.

  • The ship left the port with a full cargo of electronics.
  • The cargo was loaded onto the airplane for its international flight.

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.
Context #2 | Noun

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?

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Word Description / Examples
consignment

Use this word when referring to a shipment of goods that are sent somewhere, typically to be sold or stored.

  • The consignment of new clothes arrived at the store yesterday
  • The books on consignment need to be returned if they aren't sold within a month
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.

  • She received a commission to paint a portrait of the mayor
  • The salesperson earns a commission on each sale they make
assignment

Use this word when referring to tasks or duties that are given to someone as part of their job or studies.

  • The teacher gave us an assignment to complete over the weekend
  • Her assignment at the company involves market research
allocation

Use this word when talking about distributing resources or responsibilities among different people or projects.

  • The allocation of funds for the new project will be discussed in the meeting
  • A fair allocation of tasks is important for team efficiency

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'consignment' comes from the Latin 'consignare', which means 'to mark with' or 'to sign together'.
  • It first appeared in English in the 17th century, often in shipping and commerce contexts.
  • The prefix 'con-' means 'together', indicating the cooperative nature of transferring items.

Commerce

  • Consignment stores often sell used or vintage items, tapping into a sustainable approach to shopping.
  • Retailers typically charge a commission for selling consigned items, which serves as motivation for both the seller and the store.
  • The concept supports small businesses while minimizing risk for sellers, making it a popular method in various markets.

Psychology

  • Trust plays a significant role in consignment transactions, as sellers rely on store owners to sell their items responsibly.
  • People may feel more connected to items they sell on consignment, enhancing their emotional experience of shopping.
  • The model can promote a sense of community, as local businesses often support each other by selling consigned goods.

Cultural Significance

  • Consignment shops have grown popular in urban settings, catering to trends of thriftiness and eco-consciousness.
  • In some cultures, consignment is part of traditional barter systems, where goods and services are exchanged without monetary transactions.
  • Specialty consignment stores focus on specific items like art, furniture, or fashion, creating unique shopping experiences.

Legal Aspects

  • Consignment agreements often include terms that define ownership of items until sold, protecting both seller and consignment shop.
  • Tax implications can vary, as some regions require consignment sales to be reported differently than traditional retail sales.
  • Legal disputes may arise if the terms of the consignment are not clearly communicated, highlighting the importance of written agreements.

Translations

Translations of the word "consignment" in other languages:

🇵🇹 remessa

🇮🇳 प्रेषण

🇩🇪 Sendung

🇮🇩 pengiriman

🇺🇦 вантаж

🇵🇱 przesyłka

🇯🇵 発送

🇫🇷 envoi

🇪🇸 envío

🇹🇷 gönderi

🇰🇷 배송

🇸🇦 شحنة

🇨🇿 zásilka

🇸🇰 zásielka

🇨🇳 发货

🇸🇮 pošiljka

🇮🇸 sending

🇰🇿 жөнелту

🇬🇪 გაგზავნა

🇦🇿 göndərmə

🇲🇽 envío

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,766, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.