Usage of 签订
The verb 签订 (qiān dìng) specifically refers to the formal act of agreeing to and signing official documents such as treaties, contracts, or agreements. It is commonly used in legal, business, and diplomatic contexts.
Common Collocations
- 签订合同 (qiāndìng hétong): to sign a contract
- 签订协议 (qiāndìng xiéyì): to sign an agreement
- 签订条约 (qiāndìng tiáoyuē): to sign a treaty
These collocations emphasize formal, binding agreements.
Notes on Usage
When using 签订, the focus is on the completion of a formal process involving signatures and mutual consent. It is more formal than just 签字 (to sign one’s name) and implies legal or official weight.
Avoid confusing 签订 with 订 (to order) alone; 签订 always involves signing and formalizing an agreement, not just placing an order.
Register and Tone
This word is formal and typically used in written or official spoken contexts rather than casual conversation.