Quote:
Originally Posted by zelda_pinwheel
okay, now i'm wondering if someone can help me with a translation question. when i a contact for a new project, i write the client a "devis" which gives an estimate of the total cost and the detail of my price for each part of the project. would you call this in english : "estimate" "quote" or "quotation" ? the dictionary says "estimate", but a friend of mine thinks it's "quote" or "quotation". anybody know ?
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In Uk English usage an estimate is a rough amount. However, a quotation is a legally binding amount.
So, when I hire an unknown workman I prefer to ask him for a quotation, so I don't get any nasty surprises when the bill arrives. However, if it's a craftsman I know and trust, then I'm happy with an estimate, because he may find some unforeseen problem, so that a job may take longer. Occasionally, I've had people charging less than their original estimate (a very honest electrician, and a washing-machine repairman).