What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
secondment
Example
The company offered me a secondment to their London office for six months. [secondment: noun]
Example
He was seconded to the marketing department to help with a new product launch. [seconded: past tense]
transfer
Example
She requested a transfer to the New York office to be closer to her family. [transfer: noun]
Example
He was transferred to the accounting department after working in sales for five years. [transferred: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Transfer is more commonly used than secondment in everyday language, especially in the context of job changes and relocations. Secondment is a more specialized term used in the business and professional world.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between secondment and transfer?
Secondment is a more formal term than transfer, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Secondment is typically used in professional settings, such as HR, legal, or consulting firms, while transfer is more versatile and can be employed in various industries and situations.