consignment - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
consignment Word Meanings
- A shipment of goods sent to a person or business.
- The act of delivering goods to an agent for sale.
- An item held for sale in a store or by an agent.
consignment Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
consignment Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kənˈsaɪnmənt/
US
/kənˈsaɪnmənt/
consignment Word Etymology
The word 'consignment' is derived from the prefix 'con-' (together) and 'signare' (to sign or mark), originating from Latin, passing through Old French to English. Visualize a group of parcels all marked for the same destination, emphasizing the idea of collective shipment.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Consignment is a way of moving goods where the seller ships merchandise to another party, such as a shop or agent, who agrees to offer it for sale on their behalf. The seller retains ownership until a sale occurs, and payment is made only for items that are sold, with the rest returned or accounted for. The arrangement often benefits retailers who want to stock products without buying them upfront. It is common in art galleries, craft markets, and secondhand stores. In many business contracts, consignment terms specify duties, pricing, and the share of proceeds for the consignor and consignee.
Usage Reminders
- Consignment means ownership stays with the seller until sold.
- Payment is made only for items that sell.
- The consignee acts as the seller's agent.
- Prices and commissions are defined in the contract.
- Practice with real contexts like art, crafts, and secondhand items.
Common Misconceptions
- The consignee owns the goods after delivery.
- Payment is received for all items at once.
- Consignment and wholesale are the same thing.
- Unsold items are always returned automatically with no terms.
- The consignor has no say in pricing or display.
Thinking Differences
In English, consignment emphasizes the seller still owning the goods and sharing proceeds with the retailer or agent. Learners often assume the buyer owns the items or that payment is immediate.
Learning Tips
- Compare consignment with wholesale and with simple shipping.
- Clarify ownership at each stage (seller vs buyer).
- Remember payment happens after sale, not upfront.
- Check the contract for commission and return terms.
- Practice with real contexts like art, crafts, and secondhand stores.
- Learn common phrases such as 'on consignment' and 'consignment agreement'.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'consignment' mean?
A.A shipment of goods
B.A type of car
C.The process of cooking
D.A style of painting
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct sentence that uses 'consignment'.
A.She sent the consignment to the store last week.
B.I bought a new consignment to wear to the party.
C.He enjoys a consignment to the beach every summer.
D.The artist made a beautiful consignment.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'consignment'?
A.Shipment
B.Delivery
C.Transport
D.Communication
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'consignment'?
A.Return
B.Purchase
C.Trade
D.Sell
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario involving 'consignment'?
A.A person buys a gift for a friend at a shop.
B.A store receives items to sell on behalf of someone else.
C.A truck delivers food to a restaurant regularly.
D.A family enjoys a picnic in the park.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App