How to describe a commission?

[hholdenaz]

Ok, before you ask, I know what a commission is. However, say somebody who didn't know did ask. What would be the best way to describe a commission to that person?

 

[hauntedclipp]

I'm going to assume you want to commission something fictional.
Using known prototypes to help illustrate what you want is generally the easiest way, though it might vary depending on just what you want to commission.

Let's say you're trying to describe the cab of a fictional steam locomotive you designed. Find a prototype with a cab shape that matches your design as closely as possible and describe whatever detail differences there might be. Side window shape and size (if applicable), forward lookout shape and size, roof shape, rear roof overhang, lettering, roof hatch, etc. All compared to prototypes. Don't be afraid to go too into detail.

 

[hholdenaz]

I'm going to assume you want to commission something fictional.
Using known prototypes to help illustrate what you want is generally the easiest way, though it might vary depending on just what you want to commission.

Let's say you're trying to describe the cab of a fictional steam locomotive you designed. Find a prototype with a cab shape that matches your design as closely as possible and describe whatever detail differences there might be. Side window shape and size (if applicable), forward lookout shape and size, roof shape, rear roof overhang, lettering, roof hatch, etc. All compared to prototypes. Don't be afraid to go too into detail.

Thanks, but that isn't really what I meant: I was actually asking how to describe the word commission itself. Before you point out dictionaries, I don't think a Trainz commission is the same as a regular one.

 

[boleyd]

Here we go...

 

[hauntedclipp]

Thanks, but that isn't really what I meant: I was actually asking how to describe the word commission itself. Before you point out dictionaries, I don't think a Trainz commission is the same as a regular one.

No, I'd say it's the same as a "regular" one. When you commission someone, you're paying them to make something for you. When you commission a Trainz content creator, you're paying them to make content for Trainz.

So yes, the dictionary definition would apply here.

 

[hholdenaz]

No, I'd say it's the same as a "regular" one. When you commission someone, you're paying them to make something for you. When you commission a Trainz content creator, you're paying them to make content for Trainz.

So yes, the dictionary definition would apply here.

Oh, I see. Anyway, the reason I asked is because I commissioned a model, but at the moment, I have to rely on my mother for the online money and I wasn't sure how I would explain commissions to her without getting too frustrated.

 

[normhart]

It might help to put it in Art terms. Like commissioning a portrait or sculpture.

 

[pware]

I was actually thinking in terms of "rank" or "appointment" like a commissioner of railways. This, plus a few other recent threads, is making me think that June must be International Obfuscation Month.

 

[Vern]

Or look upon it as a personal "Kickstarter" aka crowd funding - except in this case the crowd consists of just one person.

 

[pware]

Or look upon it as a personal "Kickstarter" aka crowd funding - except in this case the crowd consists of just one person.

... and they will know where you live if it all goes wrong!

 

[H222]

You're commissioning a project, just like anything else you want built. A building, a painting (good one Norm), a retaining wall etc.