What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
consignee
Example
The consignee must sign for the package upon delivery. [consignee: noun]
Example
We need to confirm the consignee's address before we can ship the goods. [consignee's: possessive noun]
recipient
Example
She was thrilled to be the recipient of the scholarship. [recipient: noun]
Example
The email was sent to all recipients on the mailing list. [recipients: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Recipient is more commonly used than consignee in everyday language, as it can be used in a broader range of contexts. Consignee is more technical and is primarily used in the shipping and logistics industry.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between consignee and recipient?
Consignee is more formal and technical than recipient, which is more commonly used in everyday language. Both words can be used in formal contexts, but consignee is more specific to the shipping and logistics industry.
