Definition

1. Noun:
   • A person or company that enters into a contract to perform part or all of the obligations of another's contract: A subcontractor is hired by a primary contractor (the main contractor) to complete a specific portion of the work for a larger project.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The general contractor hired a plumbing subcontractor to install all the pipes in the new building.
  • As a freelance graphic designer, she often works as a subcontractor for larger marketing agencies.

Advanced Usage

• "To bring in a subcontractor": To hire an external specialist to handle a specific task.
  • The construction firm had to bring in a subcontractor for the electrical wiring because it was too specialized.
• "Acting as a subcontractor": Functioning in the role of a subcontractor.
  • Our small company is acting as a subcontractor on the government project, providing software development services.

Variants and Related Words

• Subcontract (verb/noun): The agreement or act of hiring a subcontractor.
  • The company decided to subcontract the catering for the event.
• Subcontracting (noun/gerund): The practice of using subcontractors.
  • Subcontracting is common in the construction industry.

Synonyms

• Outsourcer: A person or entity that contracts work to an outside supplier.
• Specialty contractor: A contractor who specializes in a specific trade, often working as a subcontractor.

Related Phrases

• Prime contractor: The main contractor who hires subcontractors.
• Independent contractor: A self-employed person hired for a specific job, which may include subcontracting work.

Noun

1. someone who enters into a subcontract with the primary contractor