Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Outsource” — 4 Other Ways to Say It
To hire someone outside your company to do work instead of doing it yourself. Many companies outsource tasks to cut costs or get specialized expertise.
Meaning of Outsource
To obtain or contract services, work, or goods from an external company or supplier rather than producing or handling them internally.
How to Pronounce Outsource
IPA: /ˈaʊtˌsɔːrs/ Stress: Oo
OUT-source. Stress the first syllable OUT strongly. The second syllable 'source' is lower stress and rhymes with 'force'. Two clear syllables.
4 Synonyms for Outsource — Words Similar to Outsource
Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.
delegate
/ˈdɛləˌɡeɪt/To give someone else a job or responsibility that you normally do. You stay responsible but they do the work.
Example: The manager decided to delegate the project to her senior team member.
Smart Synonyms for Outsource — When to Use Each
contract out
Emphasizes formal agreement and external supplier relationship
subcontract
More technical; common in construction and manufacturing
delegate
More general term; can refer to internal
Antonyms of Outsource — Opposite Words
How to Use Outsource and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- The company decided to outsource its customer service to India. B2
- We outsourced the website design to a specialized agency. B2
- Many businesses outsource accounting to reduce overhead costs. B2
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Outsource
What is another word for "outsource"?
Common synonyms for "outsource" include: contract out, subcontract, delegate, farm out.
What can I say instead of "outsource"?
Try one of these alternatives: contract out, subcontract, delegate, farm out. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "outsource" formal or informal?
"outsource" is generally used in formal contexts. Use it in writing, business, and academic settings.
When should I use "outsource" instead of "contract out"?
Use "outsource" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "contract out" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.
What are the antonyms of "outsource"?
Words with the opposite meaning of "outsource" include: in-house, internalize.