Meaning and Usage
The word 委託 (いたく) means to entrust or consign something, often a task, responsibility, or goods, to another party. It is commonly used in business contexts where a company or individual delegates work or sales to a specialized firm or another store.
Common Contexts
委託 is frequently used when talking about outsourcing work, consigning goods for sale, or entering into contracts where responsibilities are handed over. It implies a formal or official transfer of duties or items.
Collocations and Patterns
- 委託する: to entrust or consign
- 委託契約 (いたくけいやく): consignment or outsourcing contract
- 仕事を委託する: to outsource work
- 商品を委託販売する: to consign goods for sale
Register and Nuance
This term is formal and often appears in business, legal, or official documents. It is not commonly used in casual conversation. When using 委託, the speaker implies a clear and formal delegation of responsibility.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 委託 with 預ける (あずける), which also means to entrust or leave something with someone. However, 委託 usually involves a formal contract or business arrangement, while 預ける is more casual and personal.