transfer
trans-FUR
/trænsˈfɜːr/
To route an active phone call from one extension, phone line, or agent to another.
In business telephony, involves moving an ongoing active line to another recipient.
The story behind the word. Composed of Latin 'trans-' (across) and 'ferre' (to carry). Early telephone exchanges physically carried connecting patch cords across switchboard panels to move a caller to another department's wire line.
Word relationships
- pass along: Pass along is informal, whereas transfer is standard corporate switchboard terminology.
- forward: Forward typically reroutes calls automatically before they are answered, whereas transfer occurs during an active call.
- retain: Retain means keeping the call on your line rather than passing it away.
Commonly confused with
- patch: Transfer gives the call away to another agent; patch connects a third party to create a multi-way bridge.
Word family
- transferable (adjective): Capable of being passed from one person to another.
- transference (noun): The act of transferring.
Collocations
- transfer a call
- blind transfer
- warm transfer
- transfer extension
Example sentences
- "I will transfer your call to the billing manager right away." Reception desk protocol
Memory hook
TRANS (across) + FER (carry) = carry a caller across to another line. Carry the call across to another extension.
When not to use
Do not confuse with transferring digital computer files unless using general context.
Fun facts
- A 'warm transfer' means speaking to your colleague before completing the transfer; a 'blind transfer' sends it immediately.
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