secondment: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1/C2Formal, predominantly business and organisational contexts.
Quick answer
What does “secondment” mean?
The temporary transfer of an employee to another role, department, organisation, or location.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The temporary transfer of an employee to another role, department, organisation, or location.
A temporary assignment of personnel, typically to gain experience, provide expertise, or as a career development opportunity. The individual remains employed by their original organisation but works for and reports to the host entity for a fixed period.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
More common and formally established in British English and Commonwealth countries. In American English, terms like 'temporary assignment', 'detail', or 'rotation' are often used in corporate or government contexts, though 'secondment' is understood.
Connotations
In UK contexts, it often implies a formal, planned career development move, sometimes with a status element. In US contexts, it may sound more bureaucratic or specifically international.
Frequency
High frequency in UK professional contexts (HR, civil service, academia). Moderate-to-low frequency in general US English, more likely in multinational or academic settings.
Grammar
How to Use “secondment” in a Sentence
secondment to [organisation/department]secondment from [home organisation]secondment at [host location]secondment for [period/duration]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “secondment” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- They agreed to second her to the Brussels office for a year.
- He was seconded to the UN development programme.
American English
- The agency detailed him to the field office. (Note: 'detailed' is the common US equivalent for 'seconded' in govt. contexts.)
adverb
British English
- Not applicable. No adverbial form derived from 'secondment'.
American English
- Not applicable. No adverbial form derived from 'secondment'.
adjective
British English
- Not applicable. The adjective form is not standard for 'secondment'.
American English
- Not applicable. The adjective form is not standard for 'secondment'.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Common in HR for employee development, knowledge transfer, or project-based staffing.
Academic
Used for researchers or lecturers spending time at another institution.
Everyday
Rare in casual conversation; used when explaining a job change.
Technical
Used in civil service, military, and large corporate policy documents.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “secondment”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “secondment”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “secondment”
- Pronouncing it like 'second' (as in 2nd) + ment (correct: /sɪˈkɒndmənt/).
- Using it as a verb (the verb is 'to second').
- Confusing it with a permanent transfer.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically, yes. The employee usually remains on the payroll of their original (home) organisation, which continues to pay their salary and benefits, though specific costs may be covered by the host organisation.
A secondment is for established employees temporarily assigned elsewhere. An internship is typically for students or new entrants gaining initial work experience, often with lower pay or for academic credit.
Sometimes, though it is not the primary aim. A secondment can sometimes convert into a permanent transfer if all parties agree, but it is initially a temporary arrangement.
Generally yes, as it is viewed as a development opportunity, broadening experience and networks. However, it depends on the quality of the role and the individual's career goals.
The temporary transfer of an employee to another role, department, organisation, or location.
Secondment is usually formal, predominantly business and organisational contexts. in register.
Secondment: in British English it is pronounced /sɪˈkɒndmənt/, and in American English it is pronounced /sɪˈkɑːndmənt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “On secondment from (e.g., 'She's on secondment from the Home Office.')”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of being SECONDeD to a new team — you're the second choice for that role, but only temporarily.
Conceptual Metaphor
BORROWING/LENDING (Personnel as a resource loaned between entities).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 'secondment'?