The words “drawer” and “drawee” are often confused due to their similar spelling and pronunciation.
However, they have distinct meanings and are used in different contexts, particularly in financial transactions.
Understanding the difference between these two terms is essential for clear and precise communication.
Here’s what you need to know:
Drawer
Definition:
According to the dictionary, a “drawer” is a noun referring to the person who writes or creates a bill of exchange, such as a check.
Example Sentences:
- The drawer of the check must sign it before it can be cashed.
- In the financial transaction, the drawer instructed the bank to pay the specified amount.
Drawee
Definition:
“Drawee” is a noun referring to the person or institution, typically a bank, upon whom a bill of exchange is drawn and who is required to pay the amount specified.
Example Sentences:
- The drawee of the check is responsible for verifying the funds before making the payment.
- When you write a check, your bank acts as the drawee.
Understanding the difference between “drawer” and “drawee” will help you use these words correctly, ensuring your writing is precise and professional.
Common Misuses of ‘Drawer’ and ‘Drawee’
Despite their clear definitions, “drawer” and “drawee” are often used incorrectly. Here are three examples of common misuses:
Incorrect:
The drawee needs to sign the check before it can be cashed.
Correction: The drawer needs to sign the check before it can be cashed.
Explanation: Here, “drawer” is the correct word because it refers to the person who writes the check.
Incorrect:
The drawer is the bank that pays out the check.
Correction: The drawee is the bank that pays out the check.
Explanation: In this sentence, “drawee” is the correct word because it refers to the bank that is responsible for making the payment.
Incorrect:
Please confirm with the drawer if the funds are available.
Correction: Please confirm with the drawee if the funds are available.
Explanation: “Drawee” is the correct word here because it refers to the bank or institution verifying and paying the amount.
Mnemonic Tips for Remembering the Difference Between “Drawer” and “Drawee”
Using mnemonics can help you remember the distinct meanings and uses of “drawer” and “drawee.”
Here are some effective mnemonic tips to keep these words straight:
Drawer
Mnemonic: Think “Draws Up the Check”
Associate “drawer” with the person who writes or “draws up” the check. This connection helps you remember that “drawer” refers to the issuer of the bill of exchange.
Example: “The drawer writes the check.”
Visual Mnemonic:
Picture someone sitting at a desk writing a check. Linking “drawer” to this image reinforces its meaning as the person who creates the financial document.
Drawee
Mnemonic: Think “Bank”
“Drawee” sounds like “payee,” and the bank is responsible for paying out the funds. This helps you remember that “drawee” refers to the entity that pays the amount specified.
Example: “The drawee pays the check.”
Visual Mnemonic:
Picture a bank teller processing a check. This visual can help you associate “drawee” with the bank or institution responsible for making the payment.
Combined Mnemonic – Drawer vs. Drawee:
“Drawer writes the check, drawee pays the amount.”
This rhyme helps you remember that “drawer” pertains to the person who writes the check, while “drawee” is the entity that pays it.
By using these mnemonics, you can more easily distinguish between “drawer” and “drawee,” ensuring accurate and confident usage in your writing and speech.