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Subcontracted: meaning, definitions and examples

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subcontracted

 

[ sʌbˈkɒntræktɪd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

business practice

Subcontracted refers to the practice of assigning tasks or responsibilities to a third party, often to fulfill a contract. This is commonly done in various industries to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, or bring in specialized skills and expertise.

Synonyms

commissioned, delegated, outsourced

Examples of usage

  • The company subcontracted the janitorial services to a local firm.
  • We subcontracted the software development to a smaller company to meet our deadline.
  • Many construction projects are subcontracted to various teams for electrical and plumbing work.

Word origin

The term 'subcontracted' traces its origins to the prefix 'sub-' meaning 'under' or 'below,' combined with 'contract,' which comes from the Latin 'contractus'. The Latin 'contractus' derives from 'contrahere,' meaning 'to draw together' or 'to tighten'. This linguistic evolution occurred as the concept of contractual obligations expanded during the Middle Ages, particularly within legal and economic contexts. In the modern era, the practice of subcontracting emerged in various sectors, including construction and manufacturing, allowing primary contractors to specialize and manage larger projects efficiently. By the late 20th century, subcontracting became a common business strategy, reflecting a shift toward outsourcing non-core functions to optimize performance.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,896, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.