assignment legal synonym

assignment - Meaning in Law and Legal Documents, Examples and FAQs

An assignment is the act of legally transferring rights, ownership, or interests from one party to another, often used in contracts, intellectual property, or debt obligations.

In normal language you would also say " transfer " instead of " assignment "

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What does "assignment" mean in legal documents?

An assignment is a legal term that refers to the transfer of rights, property, or benefits from one party (the assignor) to another party (the assignee). It's like passing the baton in a relay race – the assignor hands over their legal claim or ownership to the assignee.

In the context of contracts, an assignment typically involves two key components: the transfer of rights and the delegation of duties. Let's say you hired a guitar teacher to give you lessons, but you later decide to transfer that contract to your friend. The guitar teacher's right to receive payment would be assigned to your friend, and the duty to provide lessons would be delegated to your friend as well.

It's important to note that not all rights and duties can be freely assigned or delegated. There are certain restrictions in place to protect the interests of all parties involved. For instance, if the promised performance requires a highly specialized skill, it may not be possible to delegate that duty to someone else without the original party's consent.

Assignments can also occur in property law, particularly in landlord-tenant situations. Imagine you're renting an apartment, but you need to move out before your lease ends. You might be able to assign your remaining lease term to someone else, essentially transferring your rights and obligations as the tenant to the new person.

What are some examples of "assignment" in legal contracts?

Employment Contract: "The employee shall not assign or transfer any of their rights or obligations under this agreement without the prior written consent of the employer."

Lease Agreement: "The tenant may not assign or sublet the premises without the prior written consent of the landlord."

Intellectual Property License: "The licensee shall not assign or transfer any of its rights or obligations under this license agreement without the prior written consent of the licensor."

Loan Agreement: "The borrower shall not assign or transfer any of its rights or obligations under this loan agreement without the prior written consent of the lender."

Franchise Agreement: "The franchisee shall not assign or transfer any of its rights or obligations under this franchise agreement without the prior written consent of the franchisor."

Construction Contract: "The contractor shall not assign or transfer any of its rights or obligations under this construction contract without the prior written consent of the owner."

Insurance Policy: "The insured may not assign or transfer any of their rights or obligations under this insurance policy without the prior written consent of the insurer."

Consulting Agreement: "The consultant shall not assign or transfer any of their rights or obligations under this consulting agreement without the prior written consent of the client."

FAQs about "assignment"

What is an assignment in legal terms.

An assignment is the act of transferring rights, interests, or property from one party (the assignor) to another party (the assignee). It is a legal mechanism that allows the assignor to transfer their rights, obligations, or ownership to the assignee.

What types of things can be assigned?

Various types of legal rights, interests, or property can be assigned, such as contracts, leases, intellectual property rights (e.g., patents, trademarks, copyrights), insurance policies, debt obligations, and even real estate or personal property.

How is an assignment different from a sale?

While a sale involves the transfer of ownership in exchange for payment, an assignment typically involves the transfer of rights or interests without necessarily involving the exchange of money. The assignee essentially steps into the shoes of the assignor and assumes the same rights and obligations.

What are the requirements for a valid assignment?

For an assignment to be valid, there are typically several requirements:

• The right or interest being assigned must be assignable (some rights are non-transferable).
• The assignment must be made in accordance with any specific requirements or formalities outlined in the original agreement or applicable laws.
• The assignor must have the legal authority to make the assignment.
• The assignment must be properly documented, often in writing.

Can an assignment be revoked or undone?

In general, once an assignment is properly executed and the assignee has accepted the assignment, it cannot be revoked or undone unilaterally by the assignor. However, there may be specific circumstances or provisions in the original agreement that allow for the revocation or termination of the assignment under certain conditions.

What are the potential benefits of an assignment?

Assignments can provide several benefits, such as:

• Allowing parties to transfer rights or obligations to others who may be better positioned to fulfill them.
• Facilitating the sale or transfer of businesses or assets.
• Enabling the monetization of certain rights or interests by transferring them to parties who can better exploit them.
• Providing flexibility in managing legal relationships and obligations.

How do assignments impact third parties?

Assignments can have implications for third parties who may have existing relationships or agreements with the assignor or the assigned rights or interests. In some cases, third-party consent may be required for the assignment to be valid and enforceable against them. It's important to review any relevant agreements or laws to understand the potential impact on third parties.

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Assignment is a legal definition that refers to the transfer of rights, property, or other benefits between two parties. The party allocating the rights is known as the “assignor”, while the one receiving them is called the “assignee”. The other original party to the contract is known as the “ obligor ”.

A burden, duty, or detriment cannot be transferred as an assignment without the agreement of the assignee . Furthermore, the assignment can be carried out as a gift, or it may be paid for with a contractual consideration .

Keep reading to learn how this important legal term is used both in contract and property law and to see relevant examples.

• Assignment Examples

A common example of assignment within property law can be seen in rental agreements between landlords and tenants. For example, a tenant may be renting from a landlord but wants another party to take over the property . In this scenario, the tenant may be able to choose between assigning the lease to a new tenant or subleasing it.

If assigning it, the new tenant will be given the entire balance of the term, with no reversion to anyone else being possible. In other words, the new tenant would have a legal relationship with the landlord. On the other hand, if subleasing the property, the new tenant would be given a limited term and no legal responsibility towards the property owner, only towards the original tenant.

Another example of assignment can be seen within contract law . Let’s say that a school hires a piano teacher for a monthly employment contract with a salary of $2000 per month. As long as there is consent from all parties, the teacher could assign their contract to another qualified piano instructor.

This would be an assignment both of the piano teacher’s rights to receive $2000 per month, and a delegation of their duty to teach piano lessons. This illustrates the fact that under contract law, assignment always includes a transfer of both rights and duties between the parties. If a breach of contract is made by either party, for example for defective performance, then the new teacher or the school can sue each other accordingly.

• Legal Requirements for Assignment

For an assignment to be legally valid, it must meet certain requirements . If these are not met, a trial court can determine that the transfer of rights did not occur. The legal requirements for assignment are as follows:

• All parties must consent and be legally capable to carry out the assignment.
• The objects, rights, or benefits being transferred must be legal.
• The assignment is not against public policy or illegal.
• Some type of consideration is included if necessary.
• The contract in question must already be in place and doesn’t prohibit assignment.
• If a duty is being transferred, and it requires a rare genius or skill, then it cannot be delegated.
• The assignment doesn’t significantly change the expected outcome of a contract.
• Assignment Steps

To successfully assign a contract, certain steps must be followed to ensure the process is legally valid. The necessary assignment steps are listed below:

• Ensuring there is no anti-assignment clause in the contract.
• Executing the assignment by transferring the obligations and rights to a third party.
• Notifying the obligor of the transfer, which in turn relieves the assignor of any liability.
• Avoiding Assignment

In certain situations, one of the two parties may not want to allow their counterpart to assign the contract. This can be prevented by setting anti-assignment clauses in the original contract. An example of this is making it necessary for prior written consent to be attained from the other parties before the assignment is approved. Nevertheless, an anti-assignment clause cannot be included in an assignment that was issued or ordered by a court.

• Assignment vs. Novation

Novation occurs when a party would like to transfer both the benefits and burden of a contract to another party. This is similar to assignment in the sense that the benefits are transferred, but in this case, the burden is also passed on. When novation is finalized, the original contract is deleted and a new one is created, in which a third party becomes responsible for all the obligations and rights of the original contract.

• Assignment vs. Delegation

Although delegation and assignment are similar in purpose, they are two different concepts. Delegation refers to transferring the obligation to a third party without an assignment contract . While in assignment an entire contract and its rights and benefits can be passed on, in delegation only a particular contractual task or activity is transferred.

Let’s look at an example . Lisa is a homeowner that wants to hire Michael with an independent contractor agreement to remodel her garage. He plans to do all the work himself, but he’s not a painter, so he wants to delegate the painting work to his friend Valentina.

In this example, the contract is between Lisa, the obligor, and Michael, the delegator. Valentina would then be known as a delegatee, she doesn’t assume responsibility for the contract nor does she receive the contractual benefits, which in this case would be monetary compensation. However, Michael may have a separate agreement with Valentina to pay her in return for her work.

It’s also important to note that some duties are so specific in nature that it’s not possible to delegate them. In addition, if a party wants to avoid delegation , it’s recommended to add a clause to prevent the other party from delegating their duties.

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The Law Dictionary

Your Free Online Legal Dictionary • Featuring Black’s Law Dictionary, 2nd Ed.

ASSIGNMENT Definition & Legal Meaning

Definition & citations:.

In contracts. 1. The act by which one person transfers to another, or causes to vest in that other, the whole of the right, interest, or property which he has in any realty or personalty, in possession or in action, or any share, interest, or subsidiary estate therein. Seventh Nat. Bank v. Iron Co. (C. C.) 35 Fed. 440; Haug v. Riley, 101 Ga. 372, 29 S. E. 44, 40 L It A. 244. More particularly, a written transfer of property, as distinguished from a transfer by mere delivery. 2. In a narrower sense, the transfer or making over of the estate, right, or title which one has in lands and tenements; and, in an especially technical sense, the transfer of the unexpired residue of a term or estate for life or years. Assignment does not include testamentary transfers. The idea of an assignment is essentially that of a transfer by one existing party to another existing party of some species of property or valuable interest, except in the case of an executor. Ilight v. Sackett, 34 N. Y. 447. 3. A transfer or making over by a debtor of all his property and effects to one or more assignees in trust for the benefit of his creditors. 2 Story, Eq. Jur.

This article contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. The Law Dictionary is not a law firm, and this page does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

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Legal Assignment: Everything You Need to Know

A legal assignment occurs when a party assigns their contractual rights to a third party. 3 min read updated on September 19, 2022

A legal assignment occurs when a party assigns their contractual rights to a third party. The benefit that the issuing party would have received from the contract is now assigned to the third party. The party appointing their rights is referred to as the assignor, while the party obtaining the rights is the assignee.

Assignment of Contract

A legal assignment occurs when:

• The rights in personal or real property are transferred from one party to another
• The transfer also gives the new owner the rights to the property that the prior owner held prior to the transfer occurring

In the Purman Estate case, the court stated that a legal assignment is a transfer of property, or of some right or interest, from one person to another. It also stated that it must be the proper transfer of one whole interest in that property.

An assignment of rights occurs when an assignor gives up or transfers their rights of a future benefit to another party. In other words, an assignment is the act of one party transferring, vesting, or causing to vest their interest in a property to another party. A valid legal assignment only occurs when all underlying elements of a lawfully binding contract are included in it, including intent. A trial court can determine if an assignment has occurred. To prevent disputes or miscommunications, it's important that the subject matter is clearly identified in the assignment.

A contract assignment occurs when a party assigns their contractual rights to a third party. The benefit the issuing party would have received from the contract is now assigned to the third party. The party appointing their rights is referred to as the assignor, while the party obtaining the rights is the assignee. Essentially, the assignor prefers that the assignee reverses roles and assumes the contractual rights and obligations as stated in the contract. Before this can occur, all parties to the original contract must be notified.

How Assignments Work

The specific language used in the contract will determine how the assignment plays out. For example , one contract may prohibit assignment, while another contract may require that all parties involved agree to it before proceeding. Remember, an assignment of contract does not necessarily alleviate an assignor from all liability. Many contracts include an assurance clause guaranteeing performance. In other words, the initial parties to the contract guarantee that the assignee will achieve the desired goal.

When Assignments Will Not Be Enforced

The following situations indicate when an assignment of a contract is not enforced:

• The contract specifically prohibits assignment
• The assignment drastically changes the expected outcome
• The assignment is against public policy or illegal

Delegation vs. Assignment

Occasionally, one party in a contract will desire to pass on or delegate their responsibility to a third party without creating an assignment contract. Some duties are so specific in nature that they cannot be delegated. Adding a clause in the contract to prevent a party from delegating their responsibilities and duties is highly recommended.

Three Steps to Follow if You Want to Assign a Contract

There are three main steps to take if you're looking to assign a contract:

• Make sure the current contract does not contain an anti-assignment clause
• Officially execute the assignment by transferring the parties' obligations and rights
• Notify the obligor of the changes made

Once the obligor is notified, the assignor will effectively be relieved of liability.

Anti-Assignment Clauses

If you'd prefer not to allow the party you're doing business with to assign a contract, you may be able to prevent this from occurring by clearly stating anti-assignment clauses in the original contract. The three most common anti-assignment clauses are:

• Consent required for assignment
• Consent not needed for new owners or affiliates
• Consent not unreasonably withheld

Based on these three clauses, no party in the contract is allowed to delegate or assign any obligations or rights without prior written consent from the other parties. Any delegation or assignment in violation of this passage shall be deemed void. It is not possible to write an anti-assignment clause that goes against an assignment that is issued or ordered by a court.

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• Delegation vs Assignment
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Assign is the act of transferring rights , property , or other benefits to another party (the assignee ) from the party who holds such benefits under contract (the assignor). This concept is used in both  contract  and property law . 

Contract Law  

Under contract law, when one party assigns a  contract , the assignment represents both: (1) an assignment of rights; and (2) a delegation of  duties . 

• For example, if A contracts with B to teach B guitar for $50, A can assign this contract to C. 
• Here, A has both: (1) assigned A’s rights under the contract to the $50; and (2) delegated A’s  duty  to teach guitar, to C. 
• In this example, A is both the “assignor” and the “delegee” who delegates  the duties to another (C), C is known as the “ obligor ” who must perform the  obligations  to the  assignee , and B is the assignee who is owed duties and is liable to the obligor.

Assigning of Rights/Duties Under Contract Law

There are a few notable rules regarding assignments under contract law. 

First, if an individual has not yet secured the contract to perform duties to another, they cannot assign their future right to an assignee. 

• That is, if A has not yet contracted with B to teach B guitar, A cannot assign their rights to C. 

Second, rights cannot be assigned when they  materially change the obligor’s duty and rights. 

Third, the obligor can sue the assignee directly if the assignee does not pay them. 

• Following the previous example, this means that C ( obligor ) can sue B ( assignee ) if C teaches guitar to B, but B does not pay C $50 in return.

Delegation of Duties

If the promised performance requires a rare genius or skill, then the delegee cannot delegate it to the obligor. It can only be delegated if the promised  performance  is more commonplace. Further, an obligee can sue if the  assignee  does not perform.  However, the delegee is  secondarily liable  unless there has been an  express   release  of the delegee. 

• Meaning if B does want C to teach guitar but C refuses to, then B can sue C. If C still refuses to perform, then B can compel A to fulfill the duties under secondary liability.

Lastly, a related concept is  novation , which is when a new obligor substitutes and releases an old obligor.  If novation occurs, then the original obligor’s duties are wiped out. Novation requires an original obligee’s  consent . 

Property Law

Under  property law , assignment typically arises in landlord-tenant situations.

• For example, A might be renting from landlord B but wants another party (C) to take over the property. 
• In this scenario, A might choose between  assigning  and  subleasing  the property to C. 
• If  assigning , A would give C the entire balance of the term , with no reversion to anyone; whereas if  subleasing , A would give C the property for a limited period of the remaining term.
• Under assignment, C would have  privity  of  estate  with the landlord while under a sublease, C would not. 

[Last updated in June of 2022 by the Wex Definitions Team ]

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The Law Dictionary

TheLaw.com Law Dictionary & Black's Law Dictionary 2nd Ed.

This refers to the transfer of property rights from one person to another person, the assignor transferring the property to the assignee.

Law Dictionary – Alternative Legal Definition

In contracts. 1. The act by which one person transfers to another, or causes to vest in that other, the whole of the right, interest, or property which he has in any realty or personalty, in possession or in action, or any share, interest, or subsidiary estate therein. Seventh Nat. Bank v. Iron Co. (C. C.) 35 Fed. 440; Haug v. Riley, 101 Ga. 372, 29 S. E. 44, 40 L R. A. 244. More particularly, a written transfer of property, as distinguished from a transfer by mere delivery. 2. In a narrower sense, the transfer or for life or years. Assignment does not include testamentary transfers. The idea of an assignment is essentially that of a transfer by one existing party to another existing party of some species of property or valuable interest, except in the case of an executor. Blight v. Sackett, 34 N. Y. 447. 3. A transfer or making over by a debtor of all his property and effects to one or more assignees in trust for the benefit of his creditors. 2 Story, Eq. Jur.

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Assignment. What is Assignment?

In everyday life, we often hear terms like "assignment" used in various contexts, but what does it really mean? In this article, we will break down the concept of assignment and provide a clear understanding of this legal term.

What is an Assignment?

An assignment is a transfer or delegation of a right, interest, or obligation from one party to another. This can include intellectual property rights, contractual obligations, or even physical assets like properties or goods. In essence, when someone assigns something to another person or entity, they are giving up their claim or control over it.

Types of Assignments

Assignments can take various forms depending on the context:

• Intellectual Property Assignment : This occurs when a creator transfers ownership of an intellectual property right, such as a patent, trademark, or copyright, to someone else.
• Contractual Assignment : In this case, one party assigns their contractual rights and obligations to another party, often due to a merger, acquisition, or bankruptcy.
• Property Assignment : This type of assignment involves the transfer of physical assets, such as real estate or personal property.

Why is Assignment Important?

Assignments play a crucial role in various aspects of life:

• Business Transactions : Assignments are common in corporate mergers and acquisitions, allowing companies to consolidate assets and liabilities.
• Intellectual Property Protection : By assigning intellectual property rights, creators can protect their innovations and ideas from being misused or stolen.
• Estate Planning : Assigning assets in a will or trust enables individuals to distribute their wealth according to their wishes after passing away.

What are the Key Considerations?

When dealing with assignments, it's essential to consider the following:

• Notice Periods : Ensure that all parties involved receive adequate notice of the assignment.
• Legal Formality : Assignments must be in writing and signed by authorized representatives.
• Tax Consequences : Assignments can have tax implications, so consult with a tax professional if necessary.

In conclusion, an assignment is a vital legal concept that involves transferring rights, interests, or obligations from one party to another. Understanding the different types of assignments and their importance in various contexts is essential for making informed decisions. By considering key considerations, individuals can ensure a smooth and successful assignment process.

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Assignment Agreement Template

Use our assignment agreement to transfer contractual obligations.

Updated February 1, 2024 Written by Josh Sainsbury | Reviewed by Brooke Davis

An assignment agreement is a legal document that transfers rights, responsibilities, and benefits from one party (the “assignor”) to another (the “assignee”). You can use it to reassign debt, real estate, intellectual property, leases, insurance policies, and government contracts.

What Is an Assignment Agreement?

What to include in an assignment agreement, how to assign a contract, how to write an assignment agreement, assignment agreement sample.

Partnership Interest

An assignment agreement effectively transfers the rights and obligations of a person or entity under an initial contract to another. The original party is the assignor, and the assignee takes on the contract’s duties and benefits.

It’s often a requirement to let the other party in the original deal know the contract is being transferred. It’s essential to create this form thoughtfully, as a poorly written assignment agreement may leave the assignor obligated to certain aspects of the deal.

The most common use of an assignment agreement occurs when the assignor no longer can or wants to continue with a contract. Instead of leaving the initial party or breaking the agreement, the assignor can transfer the contract to another individual or entity.

For example, imagine a small residential trash collection service plans to close its operations. Before it closes, the business brokers a deal to send its accounts to a curbside pickup company providing similar services. After notifying account holders, the latter company continues the service while receiving payment.

Create a thorough assignment agreement by including the following information:

• Effective Date:  The document must indicate when the transfer of rights and obligations occurs.
• Parties:  Include the full name and address of the assignor, assignee, and obligor (if required).
• Assignment:  Provide details that identify the original contract being assigned.
• Third-Party Approval: If the initial contract requires the approval of the obligor, note the date the approval was received.
• Signatures:  Both parties must sign and date the printed assignment contract template once completed. If a notary is required, wait until you are in the presence of the official and present identification before signing. Failure to do so may result in having to redo the assignment contract.

Review the Contract Terms

Carefully review the terms of the existing contract. Some contracts may have specific provisions regarding assignment. Check for any restrictions or requirements related to assigning the contract.

Check for Anti-Assignment Clauses

Some contracts include anti-assignment clauses that prohibit or restrict the ability to assign the contract without the consent of the other party. If there’s such a clause, you may need the consent of the original parties to proceed.

Determine Assignability

Ensure that the contract is assignable. Some contracts, especially those involving personal services or unique skills, may not be assignable without the other party’s agreement.

Get Consent from the Other Party (if Required)

If the contract includes an anti-assignment clause or requires consent for assignment, seek written consent from the other party. This can often be done through a formal amendment to the contract.

Prepare an Assignment Agreement

Draft an assignment agreement that clearly outlines the transfer of rights and obligations from the assignor (the party assigning the contract) to the assignee (the party receiving the assignment). Include details such as the names of the parties, the effective date of the assignment, and the specific rights and obligations being transferred.

Include Original Contract Information

Attach a copy of the original contract or reference its key terms in the assignment agreement. This helps in clearly identifying the contract being assigned.

Execution of the Assignment Agreement

Both the assignor and assignee should sign the assignment agreement. Signatures should be notarized if required by the contract or local laws.

Notice to the Other Party

Provide notice of the assignment to the non-assigning party. This can be done formally through a letter or as specified in the contract.

File the Assignment

File the assignment agreement with the appropriate parties or entities as required. This may include filing with the original contracting party or relevant government authorities.

Communicate with Third Parties

Inform any relevant third parties, such as suppliers, customers, or service providers, about the assignment to ensure a smooth transition.

Keep Copies for Records

Keep copies of the assignment agreement, original contract, and any related communications for your records.

Here’s a list of steps on how to write an assignment agreement:

Step 1 – List the Assignor’s and Assignee’s Details

List all of the pertinent information regarding the parties involved in the transfer. This information includes their full names, addresses, phone numbers, and other relevant contact information.

This step clarifies who’s transferring the initial contract and who will take on its responsibilities.

Step 2 – Provide Original Contract Information

Describing and identifying the contract that is effectively being reassigned is essential. This step avoids any confusion after the transfer has been completed.

Step 3 – State the Consideration

Provide accurate information regarding the amount the assignee pays to assume the contract. This figure should include taxes and any relevant peripheral expenses. If the assignee will pay the consideration over a period, indicate the method and installments.

Step 4 – Provide Any Terms and Conditions

The terms and conditions of any agreement are crucial to a smooth transaction. You must cover issues such as dispute resolution, governing law, obligor approval, and any relevant clauses.

Step 5 – Obtain Signatures

Both parties must sign the agreement to ensure it is legally binding and that they have read and understood the contract. If a notary is required, wait to sign off in their presence.

Related Documents

• Sales and Purchase Agreement : Outlines the terms and conditions of an item sale.
• Business Contract : An agreement in which each party agrees to an exchange, typically involving money, goods, or services.
• Lease/Rental Agreement : A lease agreement is a written document that officially recognizes a legally binding relationship between two parties -- a landlord and a tenant.
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To transfer to another, as to assign one's right to receive rental income from property to another. To designate for a particular function, as to assign an attorney to defend an indigent in a criminal prosecution. To specify or point out, as to assign errors in a lower court proceeding on a writ of error that is submitted to request a court to reverse the judgment of the lower court.

1) v. to transfer to another person any asset such as real property or a valuable right such as a contract or promissory note. 2) n. the person (assignee) who receives a piece of property by purchase, gift or by will. It often shows up in contracts and wills.

TO ASSIGN, contracts; practice. 1. To make a right over to another; as to assign an estate, an annuity, a bond, &c., over to another. 5 John. Rep: 391. 2. To appoint; as, to appoint a deputy,, &c. Justices are also said to be assigned to keep the peace. 3. To set forth or point out; as, to "assign errors," to show where the error is committed; or to assign false judgment, to show wherein it was unjust. F. N. B. 19.

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verb as in select and give a responsibility

Strongest matches

Strong matches

Weak matches

• hold responsible

verb as in set apart for a reason

• appropriate

Example Sentences

It is designed to listen to meetings with multiple participants and will parse discussion patterns to produce informative synopses and assign post-meeting action items.

Such randomized, double-blinded controlled trials randomly assign patients to receive a drug or a placebo, and don’t reveal to participants or doctors who is getting which.

That AI could pore over an astronaut’s symptoms and then recommend medical tests, make diagnoses and assign treatments.

So I rose beyond cleaning, to working as an operational dispatcher for cabin services in the American Airlines traffic control center, assign cleaning crews to each incoming aircraft.

Ideally, the Mars spaceship would be equipped with artificial intelligence that could consider an astronaut’s symptoms, recommend medical tests, make diagnoses and assign treatments.

Now the Kremlin will assign more loyal people to rule the region, mostly military leaders.

When we assign a primitive “not me” status to another individual or social group, it can—and does—take us down a destructive path.

Other folks can debate and assign blame for “who lost Iraq.”

Renee Richardson knows she'll likely never be able to assign blame for her son's death—she's done fighting for that.

Girls are directed through several pages of this until they are asked to assign the guy a series of pre-decided adjectives.

The designs of Russia have long been proverbial; but the exercise of the new art of printing may assign them new features.

With what honest pride did John Smith, the best farmer of them all, step to the fore and assign to each man his place!

If the lessee die, his executor or administrator can assign the remainder of his term.

As the lessee may assign or sublet unless forbidden, so may the lessor part with his interest in the leased premises.

If offered any dish of which you do not wish to partake, decline it, but do not assign any reason.

Related Words

Words related to assign are not direct synonyms, but are associated with the word assign . Browse related words to learn more about word associations.

verb as in attribute responsibility or achievement

verb as in assign; give portion

• cut the pie

verb as in set aside

Viewing 5 / 88 related words

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.

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Definition of assign

 (Entry 1 of 2)

transitive verb

Definition of assign  (Entry 2 of 2)

• intrust

ascribe , attribute , assign , impute , credit mean to lay something to the account of a person or thing.

ascribe suggests an inferring or conjecturing of cause, quality, authorship.

attribute suggests less tentativeness than ascribe , less definiteness than assign .

assign implies ascribing with certainty or after deliberation.

impute suggests ascribing something that brings discredit by way of accusation or blame.

credit implies ascribing a thing or especially an action to a person or other thing as its agent, source, or explanation.

Examples of assign in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'assign.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Verb and Noun

Middle English, from Anglo-French assigner , from Latin assignare , from ad- + signare to mark, from signum mark, sign

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing assign

• pre - assign

Dictionary Entries Near assign

Cite this entry.

“Assign.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/assign. Accessed 25 Sep. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of assign, legal definition, legal definition of assign.

Legal Definition of assign  (Entry 2 of 2)

More from Merriam-Webster on assign

Nglish: Translation of assign for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of assign for Arabic Speakers

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