What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
assign
Example
The teacher will assign a project to each student. [assign: verb]
Example
They assigned me the task of organizing the event. [assigned: past tense]
designate
Example
The committee will designate a spokesperson for the event. [designate: verb]
Example
He was designated as the team captain. [designated: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Assign is more commonly used than designate in everyday language. Assign is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while designate is less common and is typically used in formal or official settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between assign and designate?
While assign can be used in both formal and informal contexts, designate is generally associated with a more formal tone and is commonly used in official or professional settings.
