Understanding “Commission”
Definition and Part of Speech
The word commission can function as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it typically refers to an order or directive for someone to do something, or a group of people charged with overseeing certain tasks. As a verb, it means to instruct or authorize someone to perform a task or service.
Grammatical Forms:
- Noun: Commission (e.g., “The commission was established by the government.”)
- Verb: To commission (e.g., “They commissioned an artist for a mural.”)
Core Synonyms
Below is a table presenting main synonyms of commission, highlighting subtle differences and usage contexts.
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Order | A directive for someone to perform an action | “She placed the order with a reputable artist.” | Common, both formal and informal |
| Charge | Assigning responsibility or duty | “He was charged with overseeing the project.” | Formal, often business-related |
| Authorize | Giving official permission or power | “The board authorized the new initiative.” | Business/Formal |
| Mandate | An authoritative command or instruction | “The mandate came directly from the CEO.” | Formal, often legal/official |
| Appoint | Officially naming someone to a position or task | “She was appointed as head of the committee.” | Formal, commonly in official contexts |
Usage Notes
-
Order: This synonym is versatile and can be used across various levels of formality. It’s especially common in everyday situations where one might order goods or services.
-
Charge: Typically used in a more formal context, often within business or organizational settings to indicate responsibility rather than just a task.
-
Authorize: Used when referring to granting permission with some degree of authority, often found in official or legal documentation and discussions.
-
Mandate: Commonly used in political or legal contexts, this term implies an authoritative requirement that must be followed. It is less likely to be used casually.
-
Appoint: This synonym emphasizes a formal naming to a position or duty, typically involving some level of authority or oversight by an organization or institution.
Common Pitfalls
-
Confusing “Order” and “Authorize”: While both involve directing actions, “order” is more about giving instructions for tasks, whereas “authorize” involves granting permission.
-
Mixing up “Charge” and “Commission” as Verbs: Both can mean to instruct someone. However, “charge” often implies responsibility over the task, while “commission” might emphasize hiring or contracting.
Final Recap
The word commission has a range of synonyms including order, charge, authorize, mandate, and appoint. Each carries its own nuance that makes it suitable for different contexts — from informal to formal settings and everyday use to business communication. Understanding these distinctions can enhance clarity in communication across various domains.
Encourage readers to practice using these terms by crafting sentences or engaging in conversations that apply these synonyms appropriately. By doing so, they will broaden their vocabulary and improve their command of context-specific language usage.