commission en 30 segundos
- Commission: Payment for services (percentage) or an appointed group (committee).
- French 'commission' has multiple meanings: financial payment, official group, or art order.
- Understand context: sales = money, official = committee, art = order.
- Feminine noun: une commission. Be mindful of gender.
Understanding the French Word "Commission"
The French word commission, pronounced roughly like 'koh-mee-see-ohn', is a noun that carries a few important meanings, primarily related to payment for services or a group tasked with a specific job. In its most common usage, it refers to a payment made to someone for their work as an agent or intermediary, usually a percentage of a sale or transaction. Think of a real estate agent who earns a commission on the sale of a house, or a salesperson who receives a commission based on their sales figures. This is a very prevalent concept in business and commerce.
Beyond financial compensation, commission can also denote a group of people officially assigned to do something, like a committee or a task force. For instance, a government might establish a commission to investigate a particular issue or to oversee a specific project. This usage highlights the idea of a formal delegation of responsibility and authority. The context will usually make it clear which meaning is intended.
In the realm of art and creation, commission also refers to an order to create a piece of art, such as a painting, sculpture, or musical composition. When an artist accepts a commission, they are agreeing to create a specific work for a client, often with specific requirements and for a set fee. This is a significant aspect of many artists' careers, allowing them to produce bespoke works for patrons.
The word's versatility means you'll encounter it in various settings, from everyday business conversations and legal documents to discussions about art and public policy. Understanding these nuances is key to grasping its full meaning in French.
- Financial Payment
- A sum of money paid to an agent or salesperson, typically as a percentage of the value of a transaction or sale.
- Assigned Group
- A group of people appointed to perform a specific task or to investigate something.
- Artistic Order
- An order or request to create a work of art, often for a specific client.
The real estate agent received a substantial commission for selling the property.
A parliamentary commission was established to study the environmental impact.
She commissioned a local artist to paint her portrait.
Practical Applications of "Commission" in French Sentences
Mastering the usage of commission involves seeing it in action across various contexts. Let's explore how this word functions in different sentence structures, covering its primary meanings: financial payment, an assigned group, and an artistic order.
Financial Commission: This is perhaps the most frequent use. It's often linked to sales, real estate, and services where a percentage is earned. You'll commonly see it with verbs like recevoir (to receive), gagner (to earn), or payer (to pay).
- Receiving Commission
- Le vendeur a reçu une commission de dix pour cent sur chaque vente.(The salesperson received a ten percent commission on each sale.)
- Negotiating Commission
- Nous devons négocier la commission avant de signer le contrat.(We must negotiate the commission before signing the contract.)
- Paying Commission
- La société paie une commission généreuse à ses meilleurs employés.(The company pays a generous commission to its top employees.)
Assigned Group / Committee: In this sense, commission refers to a body or group appointed for a specific duty or investigation. Verbs like établir (to establish), former (to form), or présider (to preside over) are often associated with this meaning.
- Establishing a Commission
- Le gouvernement a décidé d'établir une commission d'enquête.(The government decided to establish an investigative commission.)
- Members of a Commission
- Plusieurs experts font partie de cette commission scientifique.(Several experts are part of this scientific commission.)
- Report from a Commission
- La commission rendra son rapport la semaine prochaine.(The commission will present its report next week.)
Artistic Order / Commissioning Art: This usage relates to commissioning a work of art. Verbs like commander (to order), faire (to make/have made), or recevoir (to receive) can be used here.
- Ordering a Portrait
- Elle a commissionné un peintre pour réaliser son portrait.(She commissioned a painter to create her portrait.) *Note: Here, the verb 'commissionner' or 'commander' is used.*
- A Commissioned Piece
- C'est une œuvre de commission pour le nouveau musée.(It is a commissioned work for the new museum.)
- The Act of Commissioning
- Le processus de commission d'une sculpture peut être long.(The process of commissioning a sculpture can be long.)
Le directeur commercial a négocié une nouvelle structure de commission pour son équipe.
Une commission spéciale a été formée pour examiner la loi sur l'environnement.
L'artiste a accepté la commission de créer une fresque murale.
Real-World Scenarios for "Commission" in French
The French word commission is a staple in many everyday conversations and professional settings. Understanding where you're likely to encounter it will significantly boost your comprehension and fluency. Let's explore the most common environments where this word is used.
Business and Sales Environments: This is arguably the most frequent domain for commission. If you're involved in sales, real estate, insurance, or any industry where intermediaries or sales representatives earn a percentage of their deals, you'll hear commission constantly. Conversations might revolve around:
- Negotiating commission rates: "Quel pourcentage de commission allez-vous nous offrir?" (What percentage of commission will you offer us?)
- Discussing commission structures: "Notre structure de commission a changé ce trimestre." (Our commission structure has changed this quarter.)
- Calculating earnings: "Ma paie est composée d'un salaire fixe plus une commission." (My pay consists of a fixed salary plus a commission.)
Government and Public Administration: In official contexts, commission refers to a body of people appointed to investigate, advise, or manage a specific area. You'll hear this in:
- News reports about policy: "La commission sur l'environnement a publié ses recommandations." (The environmental commission has published its recommendations.)
- Official announcements: "Le président a nommé les membres de la nouvelle commission." (The president has appointed the members of the new commission.)
- Academic or legal discussions: "Cette affaire a été renvoyée à une commission spéciale." (This case has been referred to a special commission.)
Art and Culture: When discussing art, particularly commissioned pieces, commission is a key term. Artists, galleries, and collectors will use it when talking about:
- Ordering artwork: "J'ai décidé de commissionner un tableau pour mon salon." (I've decided to commission a painting for my living room.) - Note the verb form here.
- Describing a commissioned piece: "C'est une œuvre de commission, réalisée sur mesure." (It's a commissioned work, made to order.)
- Artist's portfolio: "Une grande partie de son travail consiste en des commissions privées." (A large part of his work consists of private commissions.)
International Relations and Organizations: International bodies and organizations often have commissions that deal with specific global issues, such as the European Commission.
- Discussions about the EU: "La Commission européenne travaille sur de nouvelles régulations." (The European Commission is working on new regulations.)
Everyday Transactions: Even in less formal settings, you might hear about commissions related to services like travel agencies or booking agents.
Le courtier immobilier a gagné une importante commission sur cette vente.
La commission d'enquête a entendu plusieurs témoins hier.
Nous avons décidé de commissionner un sculpteur pour le jardin.
Avoiding Pitfalls with "Commission"
While commission is a straightforward word in French, learners can sometimes make mistakes, particularly with its different meanings and grammatical nuances. Being aware of these common errors can help you use the word more accurately.
1. Confusing the Financial Meaning with Other Meanings: The most common mistake is assuming commission always refers to a financial payment. While this is its most frequent use, it's crucial to remember it can also mean a committee or an artistic order. For example, saying "J'ai reçu une commission de mon gouvernement" (I received a commission from my government) might be misinterpreted if the speaker means they were appointed to a committee rather than receiving money.
2. Gender Agreement and Articles: Commission is a feminine noun in French: une commission. Learners might incorrectly use masculine articles (like un or le) or adjectives. Always remember: la commission, une commission, cette commission.
3. Using the Verb "Commissionner" Incorrectly: The verb commissionner (to commission) is derived from the noun. While it exists, especially in the context of ordering art, it's less common than the noun itself. People might mistakenly try to use it in contexts where the noun is more appropriate, or vice versa. For instance, instead of saying "J'ai reçu une commission pour peindre" (I received a commission to paint), it's more natural to say "J'ai été commissionné pour peindre" (I was commissioned to paint) or "J'ai accepté la commission de peindre" (I accepted the commission to paint).
4. Pronunciation Issues: The French pronunciation 'koh-mee-see-ohn' can be challenging. English speakers might over-pronounce the final 'n' or misplace the stress. Practicing the nasal vowel sound in "on" is key.
5. Over-reliance on English Cognate: While English "commission" is a cognate, its usage isn't always a perfect one-to-one match. French might prefer different phrasing or verbs in certain contexts. For example, when talking about a committee, while commission is correct, comité is also very common and sometimes preferred depending on the specific context or formality.
Mistake: Il a gagné un commission.
Correct: Il a gagné une commission.
Mistake: La commission de gouvernement.
Correct: La commission gouvernementale ou une commission du gouvernement.
Mistake: J'ai commandé une commission d'un tableau.
Correct: J'ai commissionné un tableau or J'ai commandé un tableau.
Exploring Alternatives to "Commission"
While commission is a versatile word, French offers several alternatives depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Understanding these synonyms and related terms can enrich your vocabulary and help you express yourself more precisely.
For Financial Payments:
- Commission
- The standard term for a payment to an agent, usually a percentage of a sale. It's neutral in register.Example: Le vendeur touche une commission sur chaque vente.
- Pourcentage
- Literally "percentage." This can be used interchangeably with commission when the context is clearly about a percentage of a transaction. It's perhaps slightly more direct about the mathematical aspect.Example: Il demande un pourcentage élevé pour son travail.
- Frais
- Means "fees" or "charges." While not a direct synonym for commission, certain types of fees could be considered a commission. It's broader and can refer to any charge for a service.Example: Les frais bancaires pour cette transaction sont élevés.
- Rémunération (variable)
- "Variable remuneration." This is a more formal and encompassing term that includes commissions as part of a salesperson's total pay.Example: Sa rémunération totale est composée d'un salaire fixe et d'une part variable.
For Assigned Groups/Committees:
- Commission
- Neutral term for a group appointed for a specific task, often official.Example: La commission d'enquête a rendu ses conclusions.
- Comité
- Means "committee." It's very similar to commission and often interchangeable, perhaps slightly less formal or official than 'commission' in some governmental contexts.Example: Le comité des fêtes organise le bal annuel.
- Délégation
- Means "delegation." This implies a group of people sent to represent a larger body, often for a specific purpose like negotiations or conferences.Example: Une délégation française a assisté à la conférence.
- Groupement
- Means "group" or "association." This is a more general term and doesn't necessarily imply an official appointment or specific task as strongly as 'commission' or 'comité'.Example: Un groupement d'artistes a protesté contre la décision.
For Artistic Orders:
- Commission (as an order)
- Refers to the act of ordering a work of art or the work itself.Example: Il a reçu une commission pour un vitrail.
- Commande
- Means "order." This is a very common and direct way to refer to ordering something, including art. It's more general than 'commission' when referring to art.Example: J'ai passé une commande pour une sculpture personnalisée.
- Création sur mesure
- Means "custom-made creation." This emphasizes the bespoke nature of the artwork.Example: L'orfèvre propose des créations sur mesure pour ses clients.
Related Verbs:
- Commissionner
- To commission (especially art). Less common in everyday speech than the noun.Example: L'artiste a été commissionné par le musée.
- Commander
- To order. Used for goods, services, and also art.Example: Nous avons commandé une nouvelle machine.
- Percevoir (une commission)
- To receive (a commission).Example: Il perçoit une commission sur chaque contrat signé.
How Formal Is It?
Dato curioso
The dual meaning of 'commission' (financial payment vs. appointed group) has roots in its Latin origin. The idea of 'entrustment' could apply to entrusting someone with money to manage or sell, or entrusting a group with a specific responsibility.
Guía de pronunciación
- Pronouncing the 'o' as in 'go' instead of 'cot' or a schwa.
- Adding an extra syllable or misplacing the stress.
- Not pronouncing the final 'n' sound clearly, especially in faster speech.
Nivel de dificultad
The word 'commission' itself is A2/B1. However, its multiple meanings and usage in specific contexts (legal, financial, artistic) can increase the difficulty for advanced readers, especially when encountering specialized phrases like 'commission rogatoire'.
Qué aprender después
Requisitos previos
Aprende después
Avanzado
Gramática que debes saber
Gender of Nouns: 'Commission' is a feminine noun.
Une belle commission, la commission importante.
Use of Prepositions with 'Commission'.
Une commission DE quelque chose (commission d'enquête), une commission SUR quelque chose (commission sur la vente), une commission À quelqu'un (payer une commission à l'agent).
Passive Voice with 'Commission'.
Une commission a été formée. L'artiste a été commissionné.
Subjunctive Mood after certain expressions related to commissions.
Il est essentiel que la commission agisse rapidement.
Formation of Compound Nouns with 'Commission'.
Commission + d'enquête = commission d'enquête.
Ejemplos por nivel
Il a une commission.
He has a commission.
Simple sentence structure, present tense.
C'est une commission.
It's a commission.
Basic identification sentence.
La commission est petite.
The commission is small.
Adjective placement after the noun.
Je veux une commission.
I want a commission.
Using 'vouloir' with a noun.
Il parle de commission.
He talks about commission.
Preposition 'de' indicating the topic.
La commission est pour lui.
The commission is for him.
Preposition 'pour' indicating recipient.
C'est une nouvelle commission.
It's a new commission.
Adjective 'nouvelle' before the noun.
Il a beaucoup de commission.
He has a lot of commission.
Quantifier 'beaucoup de'.
Le vendeur a reçu une commission sur la vente.
The salesperson received a commission on the sale.
Past tense (passé composé) of 'recevoir', preposition 'sur'.
Nous devons payer une commission à l'agent.
We must pay a commission to the agent.
Modal verb 'devoir', preposition 'à'.
Cette commission est responsable de l'organisation.
This commission is responsible for the organization.
Adjective 'responsable de'.
J'ai commandé une œuvre d'art par commission.
I commissioned a work of art.
Verb 'commander' (used here in context of commissioning), preposition 'par'.
La commission du bâtiment sera bientôt terminée.
The building commission will be finished soon.
Future tense of 'être', preposition 'du'.
Il a négocié une commission plus élevée.
He negotiated a higher commission.
Past tense of 'négocier', comparative adjective.
La commission d'enquête a entendu des témoins.
The investigative commission heard witnesses.
Noun phrase 'commission d'enquête', past tense of 'entendre'.
Elle a une commission pour peindre un portrait.
She has a commission to paint a portrait.
Infinitive clause with 'pour'.
Le taux de commission pour les agents immobiliers varie considérablement.
The commission rate for real estate agents varies considerably.
Noun phrase 'taux de commission', verb 'varier'.
Une commission spéciale a été mise en place pour étudier la faisabilité du projet.
A special commission was set up to study the project's feasibility.
Passive voice 'a été mise en place', infinitive clause 'pour étudier'.
L'artiste a accepté la commission de réaliser une fresque murale pour le nouveau centre culturel.
The artist accepted the commission to create a mural for the new cultural center.
Verb 'accepter', infinitive clause with 'de réaliser'.
Les frais de gestion incluent une commission sur les transactions.
The management fees include a commission on transactions.
Noun phrase 'frais de gestion', verb 'inclure'.
La commission européenne examine actuellement de nouvelles propositions législatives.
The European Commission is currently examining new legislative proposals.
Present continuous implied by 'actuellement', noun phrase 'propositions législatives'.
Il est rémunéré à la commission, ce qui le motive à vendre davantage.
He is paid by commission, which motivates him to sell more.
Passive voice 'est rémunéré', relative pronoun 'ce qui'.
La commission paritaire a pour but de résoudre les conflits sociaux.
The joint commission aims to resolve social conflicts.
Noun phrase 'commission paritaire', infinitive clause 'pour but de résoudre'.
Elle a choisi de ne pas accepter cette commission artistique, la jugeant trop restrictive.
She chose not to accept this artistic commission, judging it too restrictive.
Verb 'choisir', negative infinitive, past participle 'jugeant'.
Les modalités de calcul de la commission sont clairement stipulées dans le contrat.
The terms for calculating the commission are clearly stipulated in the contract.
Noun phrase 'modalités de calcul', passive voice 'sont stipulées', adverb 'clairement'.
La commission d'éthique a émis des réserves quant à la procédure suivie par l'entreprise.
The ethics commission raised concerns about the procedure followed by the company.
Noun phrase 'commission d'éthique', verb 'émettre', prepositional phrase 'quant à'.
Il est de notoriété publique que l'artiste a été commissionné pour créer une œuvre monumentale.
It is publicly known that the artist was commissioned to create a monumental work.
Impersonal expression 'Il est de notoriété publique que', passive voice 'a été commissionné'.
Le montant de la commission est déduit avant le versement du solde.
The commission amount is deducted before the balance is paid.
Passive voice 'est déduit', temporal clause 'avant le versement'.
La commission de supervision veillera à ce que les normes soient respectées.
The supervisory commission will ensure that the standards are met.
Future tense, subjunctive clause 'ce que les normes soient respectées'.
Bien que la commission soit substantielle, le risque associé à cette transaction est également élevé.
Although the commission is substantial, the risk associated with this transaction is also high.
Subordinating conjunction 'Bien que', subjunctive mood implied, adjective 'substantielle'.
La décision finale appartient à la commission ad hoc chargée de l'évaluation.
The final decision rests with the ad hoc commission responsible for the evaluation.
Noun phrase 'commission ad hoc', relative clause 'chargée de l'évaluation'.
Le paiement de la commission est conditionné à la livraison réussie du produit.
The payment of the commission is conditional upon the successful delivery of the product.
Noun phrase 'paiement de la commission', prepositional phrase 'conditionné à'.
La commission rogatoire permet à une autorité judiciaire d'une juridiction de demander l'assistance d'une autorité judiciaire d'une autre juridiction.
A letter rogatory allows a judicial authority in one jurisdiction to request assistance from a judicial authority in another jurisdiction.
Complex noun phrase 'commission rogatoire', subjunctive 'permette' (implied by context of purpose), relative clause.
Il a été décidé de mandater une commission indépendante pour arbitrer le différend.
It was decided to mandate an independent commission to arbitrate the dispute.
Impersonal passive 'Il a été décidé de mandater', infinitive clause with 'pour arbitrer'.
L'artiste a reçu une commande pour une œuvre qui devait symboliser l'unité nationale, une commission particulièrement exigeante.
The artist received an order for a work meant to symbolize national unity, a particularly demanding commission.
Complex sentence structure, participle phrase 'devait symboliser', adjective 'exigeante'.
La structure de commission a été révisée afin d'encourager une prise de risque plus mesurée.
The commission structure has been revised in order to encourage more measured risk-taking.
Passive voice 'a été révisée', purpose clause 'afin d'encourager'.
Le rapport de la commission d'enquête a mis en lumière des dysfonctionnements systémiques.
The investigative commission's report highlighted systemic dysfunctions.
Noun phrase 'rapport de la commission d'enquête', verb 'mettre en lumière', adjective 'systémiques'.
Bien qu'il ait perçu une commission conséquente, il n'était pas satisfait du résultat final.
Although he received a substantial commission, he was not satisfied with the final outcome.
Subordinating conjunction 'Bien que', subjunctive 'ait perçu', adjective 'conséquente'.
La commission de délimitation des frontières a tenu sa première réunion hier.
The border demarcation commission held its first meeting yesterday.
Noun phrase 'commission de délimitation des frontières', simple past tense.
La nature exacte de la commission artistique reste confidentielle jusqu'à la présentation publique.
The exact nature of the artistic commission remains confidential until the public unveiling.
Abstract nouns 'nature', 'confidentialité', temporal clause 'jusqu'à'.
La commission mixte a été chargée d'élaborer un cadre de coopération bilatérale exhaustif.
The joint commission has been tasked with developing a comprehensive framework for bilateral cooperation.
Complex noun phrase 'commission mixte', passive voice 'a été chargée', infinitive clause with 'd'élaborer', adjective 'exhaustif'.
Les recommandations de la commission indépendante d'experts ont été accueillies avec scepticisme par certains milieux politiques.
The recommendations of the independent commission of experts were met with skepticism by certain political circles.
Complex noun phrase, passive voice 'ont été accueillies', abstract noun 'scepticisme'.
Il est impératif que la commission de régulation agisse avec diligence pour prévenir toute dérive spéculative.
It is imperative that the regulatory commission acts with diligence to prevent any speculative drift.
Impersonal expression 'Il est impératif que', subjunctive 'agisse', adverb 'diligence', abstract noun 'dérive spéculative'.
La commission d'arbitrage, saisie du litige, s'est attachée à examiner minutieusement tous les éléments factuels.
The arbitration commission, seized of the dispute, endeavored to meticulously examine all factual elements.
Participle clause 'saisie du litige', verb 's'attacher à', adverb 'minutieusement'.
L'artiste a accepté une commission pour une œuvre éphémère, dont la pérennité dépendra des conditions environnementales.
The artist accepted a commission for an ephemeral work, whose longevity will depend on environmental conditions.
Complex noun phrase 'œuvre éphémère', relative pronoun 'dont', abstract nouns 'pérennité', 'conditions environnementales'.
La commission d'enquête a conclu que la défaillance des protocoles de sécurité était le principal facteur contributif.
The investigative commission concluded that the failure of safety protocols was the main contributing factor.
Noun phrase 'défaillance des protocoles de sécurité', abstract noun 'facteur contributif'.
Le mandat de la commission de conciliation est de faciliter un dialogue constructif entre les parties prenantes.
The mandate of the conciliation commission is to facilitate constructive dialogue between stakeholders.
Noun phrase 'commission de conciliation', infinitive clause with 'de faciliter', abstract nouns 'dialogue constructif', 'parties prenantes'.
La commission de la vérité et de la réconciliation s'est efforcée de documenter les atrocités passées.
The truth and reconciliation commission strove to document past atrocities.
Formal noun phrase, verb 's'efforcer de', abstract noun 'atrocités'.
Colocaciones comunes
Frases Comunes
— On commission; paid by commission.
Ce poste est rémunéré à commission. (This position is paid by commission.)
— A significant commission.
Elle a reçu une commission importante pour ce projet d'envergure.
— The sales commission.
La commission de vente est calculée sur le prix hors taxes.
— A commission for a job/work.
J'ai accepté une commission pour rédiger cet article.
— Selection commission.
La commission de sélection examinera toutes les candidatures.
— Ad hoc commission (formed for a specific purpose).
Une commission ad hoc a été mise en place pour traiter ce problème urgent.
— International letter rogatory.
La commission rogatoire internationale a permis de recueillir des preuves cruciales.
— Supervisory commission.
La commission de surveillance veille au respect des réglementations.
Se confunde a menudo con
'Comité' is a very close synonym for 'commission' when referring to a group or committee, often used interchangeably. The choice might depend on nuance or regional preference, but generally, both are understood.
While related in meaning (a task or assignment), 'mission' typically refers to a broader or more significant undertaking, often with a sense of purpose or goal, whereas 'commission' can be more specific to an official appointment or a financial arrangement.
'Commande' means 'order' and is used for goods or services. While you can 'passer une commande' for a piece of art (which is a form of commissioning), 'commission' specifically refers to the artistic order itself or the payment for it.
Modismos y expresiones
— To earn one's commission; to get paid for one's work, especially sales.
Après avoir finalisé la vente, le représentant a enfin pu toucher sa commission.
Informal/Business— To put something on consignment (to sell it on behalf of someone else and take a commission).
J'ai mis cette vieille commode sur commission dans ce magasin d'antiquités.
Business/Retail— To be on commission (as a job status).
Elle travaille entièrement en commission, son salaire dépend de ses ventes.
Business— To run an errand (less common usage, often implies a small task for someone else).
Pourrais-tu me faire une commission en allant à la poste ?
Informal— A last-ditch commission or effort; a final attempt to achieve something, often involving a specialized group.
Face à l'échec des négociations, une commission de la dernière chance a été formée.
Figurative/Formal— An official appointment or commission, often by a court or authority, to perform a specific duty.
Il a été nommé par le tribunal, c'est une commission d'office.
Legal/Formal— To put something up for commission (e.g., an artwork).
La galerie a décidé de mettre plusieurs œuvres en commission.
Art Market— Truth commission (a body established to investigate past human rights abuses).
La commission de la vérité a entendu des centaines de témoignages.
Political/Historical— To understand the commission (both financial and task-based).
Il faut bien comprendre la commission avant d'accepter le contrat.
Business/General— The commission is not enough (referring to financial compensation).
Pour le volume de travail, la commission ne suffit pas à couvrir les frais.
Informal/BusinessFácil de confundir
Shares meaning with English 'commission'.
In French, 'commission' can refer to a group (committee) or an artistic order, in addition to the financial payment. While English also has these meanings, the French usage is very common across these domains. Pay attention to context to differentiate.
Le vendeur reçoit une commission (financial). La commission a rendu son rapport (committee). Elle a accepté une commission pour un tableau (artistic order).
Similar sound and concept to 'mission'.
'Mission' implies a broader objective or duty, often with a sense of purpose or importance (e.g., 'une mission humanitaire'). 'Commission' is more specific: either a financial reward for a transaction or an official body appointed for a defined task. You might have a 'mission' to sell products, and earn a 'commission' for each sale.
Sa mission était de vendre le plus possible, pour laquelle il recevait une commission.
Can be confused with 'comité' when referring to groups.
Both 'commission' and 'comité' refer to groups appointed for a task. 'Commission' often implies a more formal or official appointment, especially in governmental or legal contexts (e.g., 'commission d'enquête', 'Commission européenne'). 'Comité' can be more general, such as a 'comité des fêtes' (party committee) or a 'comité de direction' (management committee). However, they are frequently interchangeable.
La Commission européenne / Le comité de la Commission européenne.
Related to 'frais' and 'pourcentage'.
'Commission' specifically refers to a payment often calculated as a percentage of a transaction, typically for an agent or intermediary. 'Pourcentage' is the mathematical term itself. 'Frais' is a broader term for 'fees' or 'charges' and can include commissions but also other costs.
La commission (percentage) de vente est de 5%. Ces frais (fees) incluent la commission.
Related to 'commande' in art context.
When ordering art, 'commande' (order) is a general term. 'Commission' (in the artistic sense) refers specifically to the order and the payment for a bespoke piece of art, often implying a commissioned work of significance. You 'passez une commande' to an artist, and the artist accepts a 'commission'.
J'ai passé une commande pour un portrait. L'artiste a accepté la commission.
Patrones de oraciones
Subject + avoir/être + commission
J'ai une commission.
Subject + Verb + commission + sur/pour + Noun
Le vendeur gagne une commission sur la vente.
Une commission + de + Noun + Verb
La commission d'enquête a commencé.
Subject + Verb + commission + pour + Infinitive
Elle a reçu une commission pour peindre.
Passive Voice + commission
Une commission spéciale a été créée.
Subject + Verb + [qualifier] + commission
Il a négocié une commission plus élevée.
Complex noun phrase + commission
Les modalités de calcul de la commission sont complexes.
Subordinate clause + commission
Bien que la commission soit faible, le travail est intéressant.
Familia de palabras
Sustantivos
Verbos
Adjetivos
Relacionado
Cómo usarlo
Very High (especially the financial meaning).
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Using masculine articles with 'commission'.
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Using feminine articles with 'commission'.
'Commission' is a feminine noun in French. Learners often mistakenly use masculine articles like 'un' or 'le'. Always remember: 'une commission', 'la commission'.
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Confusing 'commission' (committee) with 'mission'.
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Differentiating between 'commission' (official group/task) and 'mission' (broader objective/duty).
While related, 'mission' implies a larger goal or purpose, whereas 'commission' refers to a specific appointed body or task. For instance, a salesperson has a 'mission' to sell, and earns a 'commission' for each sale.
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Using 'commission' for any type of fee.
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Using 'commission' for percentage-based payments and 'frais' or 'honoraires' for other types of charges.
'Commission' specifically denotes a payment based on a transaction's value, usually for agents. Other costs are referred to by broader terms like 'frais' (fees) or 'honoraires' (professional fees).
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Incorrectly using the verb 'commissionner'.
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Using 'commissionner' primarily for artistic orders or when the passive voice 'être commissionné' is appropriate.
The verb 'commissionner' is less common than the noun and is mainly used for commissioning art. In other contexts, the noun 'commission' or other verbs like 'mandater' or 'charger' are preferred. For example, 'Il a été commissionné pour peindre' is correct, but 'Il a commissionné une enquête' is less common than 'Une commission d'enquête a été formée'.
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Assuming 'commission' always means financial payment.
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Recognizing the multiple meanings of 'commission' based on context.
'Commission' has at least three main meanings: financial payment, an official group/committee, and an artistic order. Learners might overlook the committee or art order meanings, leading to misunderstandings.
Consejos
Decode the Meaning
Always look at the surrounding words to understand which meaning of 'commission' is intended. If you see words related to sales, money, or percentages, it's likely financial. If you see words related to government, investigation, or official tasks, it's likely a committee. If you see words related to art, artists, or creation, it's likely an artistic order.
Remember the Gender
In French, 'commission' is a feminine noun. Make sure to use feminine articles ('une', 'la') and agree adjectives accordingly (e.g., 'une commission importante'). This is a common pitfall for learners.
Learn Related Terms
Expand your vocabulary by learning synonyms and related words like 'pourcentage', 'comité', 'commande', 'commissionner', and 'commissionnaire'. This will help you express nuances more precisely.
Master the Nasal 'on'
Practice the French pronunciation of 'commission' (koh-mee-see-ohn), paying special attention to the nasal 'on' sound at the end. It's different from the English 'on' sound.
Distinguish from 'Mission'
While 'mission' and 'commission' can both relate to tasks, 'mission' often implies a broader objective or duty, whereas 'commission' is more specific to financial rewards or official appointments. Understand the subtle differences in their application.
Use it in Sentences
The best way to solidify your understanding is to actively use 'commission' in your own sentences. Try to create examples for each of its main meanings (financial, committee, art order) to reinforce your learning.
Recognize Common Phrases
Familiarize yourself with common phrases like 'taux de commission', 'commission d'enquête', 'travailler à commission', and 'œuvre de commission'. Recognizing these will significantly improve your comprehension.
Leverage English Knowledge
Since English 'commission' is a direct cognate, use your existing knowledge as a starting point. However, be aware of potential differences in usage frequency or specific contexts where French might prefer a different term.
Listen for it
Actively listen for the word 'commission' in French media (movies, podcasts, news). Try to identify its meaning based on the context and how it's used by native speakers.
Be Precise
When writing, especially in formal contexts, choose the most precise term. While 'commission' can mean committee, 'comité' might be more appropriate in some situations. For financial payments, 'commission' is standard for percentage-based remuneration.
Memorízalo
Mnemotecnia
Imagine a person receiving a large check (financial commission) after successfully selling a painting (art commission). Simultaneously, visualize a group of people in suits holding a banner that says 'COMMISSION' on it, representing an official task force (committee). Link the 'com-mission' sound to 'come, mission!' – 'Come, mission accomplished!' for the financial aspect, and 'Come, mission assigned!' for the group aspect.
Asociación visual
Picture a salesperson handing over a product with one hand and receiving a large percentage sign (%) with the other. Next, imagine a formal meeting table with 'COMMISSION' written on a nameplate in the center, surrounded by serious-looking individuals. Combine these: a percentage sign morphing into a group of people working.
Word Web
Desafío
Try to create sentences using 'commission' in all three main contexts: financial, group, and artistic. For example: 'The salesperson earned a good commission on the car sale.' 'The commission investigated the fraud.' 'She commissioned a portrait of her dog.' Then, try to use the verb 'commissionner'.
Origen de la palabra
The word 'commission' in French, like its English counterpart, originates from the Latin word 'commissio', meaning 'a committing, entrusting, or sending'. It derives from the verb 'committere', which means 'to commit, entrust, or send'. The concept evolved to mean an assignment or a body entrusted with a task.
Significado original: Entrustment, assignment, or a group entrusted with a task.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > FrenchContexto cultural
When discussing financial commissions, be mindful of the context. High commissions can sometimes be associated with aggressive sales tactics or perceived unfairness, depending on the industry and negotiation. When referring to governmental or investigative commissions, maintain a neutral and objective tone, as these bodies often deal with sensitive or controversial issues.
The English word 'commission' is a direct cognate and shares many of the same meanings, including financial payment, an appointed group, and an order for art. This makes it relatively easy for English speakers to grasp the core concepts.
Practica en la vida real
Contextos reales
Real Estate Transaction
- commission immobilière
- taux de commission
- payer la commission de l'agent
- négocier la commission
Sales Job
- travailler à commission
- recevoir une commission sur les ventes
- commission mensuelle
- objectif de commission
Government/Politics
- commission d'enquête
- commission parlementaire
- Commission européenne
- nommer une commission
Art World
- commission artistique
- accepter une commission
- œuvre de commission
- commander une commission
Legal Proceedings
- commission rogatoire
- commission d'office
- commission d'arbitrage
- demande de commission rogatoire
Inicios de conversación
"As-tu déjà reçu une commission pour un travail ?"
"Quel genre de commissions le gouvernement met-il en place en ce moment ?"
"As-tu déjà commandé une œuvre d'art ?"
"Comment sont calculées les commissions dans ton domaine professionnel ?"
"Penses-tu que les commissions motivent suffisamment les employés ?"
Temas para diario
Décris une situation où tu as reçu ou payé une commission. Qu'est-ce qui s'est passé ?
Imagine que tu dois créer une commission pour résoudre un problème dans ta ville. Quel serait son objectif et qui en ferait partie ?
Si tu étais un artiste, quel type de commission aimerais-tu recevoir et pourquoi ?
Réfléchis à la différence entre un salaire fixe et une rémunération à commission. Quel système préférerais-tu et pourquoi ?
Explique la signification du mot 'commission' dans trois contextes différents : financier, gouvernemental et artistique.
Preguntas frecuentes
10 preguntasNo, 'commission' has multiple meanings. While it very often refers to a financial payment (a percentage of a sale or service), it can also mean a group of people appointed for a specific task (like a committee) or an order to create a work of art.
Yes, 'commission' is a feminine noun in French. You would say 'une commission', 'la commission', and use feminine adjectives to describe it, such as 'une commission importante'.
'Comité' is a very close synonym for 'commission' when referring to a group. They are often interchangeable. However, 'commission' can sometimes imply a more formal or official appointment, particularly in governmental or legal contexts, whereas 'comité' can be more general.
You can say 'commissionner un tableau' (using the verb derived from the noun) or more commonly, 'commander un tableau' (to order a painting). The noun form would be 'une commission pour un tableau' (a commission for a painting).
When 'commission' is used in contexts related to government, official investigations, policy-making, or specific tasks assigned to a group of people, it refers to a committee or a task force. For example, 'la commission d'enquête' (the investigative commission).
The French pronunciation is roughly 'koh-mee-see-ohn'. The stress is on the last syllable, and the 'on' at the end is a nasal sound, similar to the 'on' in the English word 'bonbon' but pronounced more through the nose.
While 'commission' often refers to a percentage-based payment for services like sales, it's not used for all types of fees. Broader terms like 'frais' (fees/charges) or 'honoraires' (professional fees) are used for other types of costs.
'Commission rogatoire' is a legal term referring to a letter rogatory, which is a formal request from a court in one jurisdiction to a court in another jurisdiction to obtain evidence or perform a judicial act.
Yes, in informal contexts, 'faire une commission' can mean to run an errand. Also, 'travailler à commission' means to work on a commission basis, where your pay depends on sales.
The financial meaning (payment for services, percentage of sales) is extremely common, especially in business, sales, and real estate contexts. It's likely the most frequent usage you'll encounter.
Ponte a prueba 10 preguntas
/ 10 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
In French, 'commission' primarily signifies a financial payment based on sales or services, or an official group appointed for a specific task (like a committee). Context is key to distinguishing between these meanings. Remember it's a feminine noun: une commission.
- Commission: Payment for services (percentage) or an appointed group (committee).
- French 'commission' has multiple meanings: financial payment, official group, or art order.
- Understand context: sales = money, official = committee, art = order.
- Feminine noun: une commission. Be mindful of gender.
Decode the Meaning
Always look at the surrounding words to understand which meaning of 'commission' is intended. If you see words related to sales, money, or percentages, it's likely financial. If you see words related to government, investigation, or official tasks, it's likely a committee. If you see words related to art, artists, or creation, it's likely an artistic order.
Remember the Gender
In French, 'commission' is a feminine noun. Make sure to use feminine articles ('une', 'la') and agree adjectives accordingly (e.g., 'une commission importante'). This is a common pitfall for learners.
Learn Related Terms
Expand your vocabulary by learning synonyms and related words like 'pourcentage', 'comité', 'commande', 'commissionner', and 'commissionnaire'. This will help you express nuances more precisely.
Master the Nasal 'on'
Practice the French pronunciation of 'commission' (koh-mee-see-ohn), paying special attention to the nasal 'on' sound at the end. It's different from the English 'on' sound.
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