handoff
The transfer of responsibility from one person to another
Examples
In a meeting
“The handoff from design to development needs to be smoother next time.”
Over coffee
“The handoff between shifts at the hospital is always hectic.”
Why this word
transfer
Handoff implies transferring responsibility from one person to another at a specific point, while transfer is general movement
transition
Handoff is the specific act of passing work to someone else, while transition is the gradual process of changing
delegation
Handoff means passing something to the next person in a sequence, while delegation is assigning work to subordinates
Usage tip
Use to describe transitions of responsibility; highlights the importance of clear communication during transfers
Etymology
English: hand (give) + off (away); from sports terminology, especially football
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Related words
disclaim
To deny responsibility or connection with something
inherit
Receive responsibilities, problems, or assets from a predecessor
culpable
Deserving blame or held responsible for wrongdoing
successor
A person or thing that follows and takes the place of another
negligent
Failing to take proper care in doing something; careless
fiduciary
Involving trust and confidence in managing affairs or assets for another