Word
commissioned
Phoneticscom·mis·sioned, stress on the second syllable
US/kəˈmɪʃənd/
UK/kəmˈɪʃənd/
Definitions
01to order work
B2 · Upper Intermediate
v. to officially ask someone to create something or do a specific job for you.
v. to formally request the production of something or the performance of a task, typically in a professional or artistic capacity.
“The city council commissioned a local artist to paint a mural on the library wall.”
“The government commissioned an independent report to investigate the environmental impact of the new high-speed railway project.”
Usage
Often used in the passive voice when focusing on the work produced.
Synonyms
02specially ordered
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. describes something that was specially made because someone asked for it.
adj. referring to a work of art, music, or literature produced specifically to fulfill a particular order.
“The museum displayed several commissioned portraits of the royal family.”
“The composer performed a commissioned piece of music written specifically for the cathedral's anniversary celebration.”
Usage
Usually appears before the noun it describes.
Synonyms
03military rank
C1 · Advanced Formal · Technical
adj. describes a military officer who has a high rank and a formal document giving them authority.
adj. holding a rank by virtue of a commission, typically referring to officers at the rank of second lieutenant or ensign and above.
“After years of training, she finally became a commissioned officer in the navy.”
“The academy produces hundreds of commissioned officers each year to lead various branches of the armed forces.”
Usage
Almost exclusively used in the phrase 'commissioned officer'.
Teaching tip
In military contexts, distinguish this from 'non-commissioned officers' like sergeants or corporals.
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“Photograph: Adam Burakowski/East News/Shutterstock The statue was commissioned by Roman Karkosik, a wealthy Polish businessman, and his wife, Grażyna.” “The artwork, of which five panels survive, was commissioned for the monastery of Santa Maria.” “The icon's remote location - in a field miles from any of Poland's population centres - is largely due to it being commissioned by a millionaire couple who live locally.” “While NHS Blood and Transplant manages organ donations and supports transplant centres, services are commissioned and paid for by NHS England.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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