What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mission
Example
Our mission is to provide clean water to the community. [mission: noun]
Example
The astronauts embarked on a mission to explore Mars. [mission: noun]
Example
She went on a mission trip to help build houses for the homeless. [mission: noun]
commission
Example
He received a commission to design the new building. [commission: noun]
Example
The manager commissioned her to lead the project. [commissioned: verb]
Example
The artist earned a commission for selling her painting. [commission: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Commission is more commonly used than mission in everyday language, especially in professional or business contexts. Mission is less common and often associated with religious or charitable work.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mission and commission?
Commission is generally more formal than mission, as it is often used in professional or business contexts. However, both words can be used in formal or informal settings depending on the context.