Work and business / B2

uh-POYNT/əˈpɔɪnt/

To appoint is to choose someone officially for a post: appoint a head, appoint a committee. Hire and take on are everyday for jobs; elect is for a vote. Appointment is the noun for the job given (and also a booked time at the doctor — a different sense). Appointee is rare and official. In casual talk, they gave her the job is enough.

Meaning

To choose someone for a job or position.

Examples

• “They appointed her as head of department.”
• “The board appointed him acting director for six months.”
• “She was appointed to lead the review, not to implement it.”

Good to know

appoint someone (as) + role. Official. Everyday: hire / give the job. Noun: appointment (also a booked time).

Near in meaning

hire

Topics

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