What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
spiff
Example
The sales team received a spiff for selling the most units this quarter. [spiff: noun]
Example
The company spiffed the employees who met their sales targets with a bonus. [spiffed: verb]
commission
Example
The real estate agent earned a commission of 5% on the sale of the house. [commission: noun]
Example
She commissioned an artist to paint a portrait of her family. [commissioned: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Commission is more commonly used than spiff in everyday language. Commission is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while spiff is less common and mainly used in sales or marketing contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between spiff and commission?
Commission is a more formal word than spiff. It is often used in legal or business contexts, while spiff is more informal and casual.
