（2014-11-28）【行銷人的英文課】處理金融財務時，搞錯款項的英文，可能會導致金錢損失，哪兩個名詞值得再看清楚一次？




《Down Payment and Deposit》

（文╱Robert Tolmasoff）The terms “down payment” and “deposit” can be easily confused or misused. Confusing these two terms could lead to a costly misunderstanding about the financial terms of a purchase.

First, let’s take a look at “down payment”. Technically, a down payment is made to secure a loan for a large purchase, with a promise to pay the rest of the loan in installments at a later time. A “down payment” is always made at the time of the purchase and is not refundable.

As consumers, we often make down payments for a mortgage to buy a house, or for a loan to buy a car. If the consumer fails to fulfill the terms of the loan, the holder of the loan, typically a bank, can foreclose on a property such as a house, or repossess a car and resell the item to try to recoup the loss of the original loan.

Below are some examples of how to use “down payment” correctly.

O: The bank requires a 20% down payment to secure a mortgage for the apartment.
O: We bought the car with a small down payment and a two-year loan.

A “deposit” is also an amount of money used to secure a purchase of a good or service. “Deposits” are often required for smaller purchases and for trying reserve a product or service that is in high demand. For example, if you wanted to order a popular new mobile phone, the retailer may ask you for a deposit to put your name on the waiting list.

While a “down payment” is not refundable, a “deposit” may or may not be refundable. It is important to understand if the deposit can be recovered if you change your mind and decide not to purchase the item or service.

Deposits are common in many purchasing situations, for example, hotels reservations, placing an order for goods that require manufacturing, and for popular goods or services.

Another use of “deposit” is to ensure the return of a rented product, such as a DVD. The deposit is returned when the item is returned.

Below are some examples of the correct use of “deposit”.

O: A 20% non-refundable deposit is required to secure the reservation.
O: Customers who wish to order the new phone must place a refundable deposit to get on the waiting list.



*Robert Tolmasoff is a trainer, editor, and author based in Taipei. His clients include international companies as well as individuals looking to sharpen their communications skills. Robert’s last two books, 上班族完美英文e-mail輕鬆寫 and 1000 Essential Business English Terms, are available in books stores and from McGraw-Hill Taiwan. Have ideas for future columns or questions? Email Robert at rtlmsff@gmail.com