transfer
trans-FER
/trænsˈfɜː(r)/
To change from one vehicle or route to another during a journey; or a ticket permitting this.
Specific to changing lines or modes of transport along a multi-leg path.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'transferre', combining 'trans-' (across) and 'ferre' (to carry). Literally meaning 'to carry across' from one vehicle or platform to another.
Word relationships
- switch: 'Switch' is informal; 'transfer' is the standard transport terminology.
- remain: 'Remain' means staying on the current vehicle.
Commonly confused with
- transit: 'Transit' is the movement overall; 'transfer' is switching vehicles.
Word family
- transferable (adjective): Capable of being transferred or moved.
Collocations
- transfer trains
- free transfer
- transfer point
- transfer to
Example sentences
- "You will need to transfer to the red line at Central Station to reach the museum." Subway directions
- "The bus driver handed her a free transfer ticket valid for ninety minutes." Transit passes
Memory hook
TRANS-FER carries you across from one FER-ry or train to another. Carry across to another line.
When not to use
Do not use if you stay on the same vehicle for the entirety of your trip.
Fun facts
- In football/soccer, 'transfer' refers to moving a player between clubs.
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