Business Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
💼
business
[ˈbɪznɪs ]
Definitions
world of commerce
Business refers to the activities involved in buying and selling goods or services for profit. It can also encompass the management and operation of a company or organization.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| business |
General or specific activities involving trade, services, or manufacturing. Can refer both to an entity and the activity.
|
| commerce |
The large-scale activity of buying and selling, generally more formal and related to economic transactions.
|
| trade |
The act or process of buying, selling, or exchanging goods and services, often on a smaller or more individual level than commerce.
|
| industry |
A specific branch of economic activity, often referring to production and manufacturing sectors.
|
Examples of usage
- Her father runs a successful business selling handmade jewelry.
- The local bakery is a family-owned business that has been around for generations.
occupation or profession
Business can also refer to one's occupation or profession, especially when it involves administrative or managerial tasks.
Synonyms
career, job, profession.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| business |
Can also mean the activities involved in the supply of goods and services.
|
| profession |
Implies an occupation that requires specialized training and formal qualifications.
|
| career |
Used when referring to the long-term professional journey and progression in one's occupation.
|
| job |
Describes a specific role or position of employment that someone performs to earn money.
|
Examples of usage
- She studied business administration in college and now works as a manager in a multinational corporation.
- His father is in the real estate business, buying and selling properties.
matter or concern
In a broader sense, business can refer to any matter, concern, or activity that needs to be dealt with or attended to.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| business |
It describes a commercial enterprise or the activities someone is engaged in professionally.
|
| matter |
It refers to a subject or situation under consideration or discussion.
|
| concern |
It often implies worry or anxiety about an issue, but can also refer to something someone is involved with or responsible for.
|
| issue |
This word is typically used to describe a problem or topic of discussion that needs to be addressed.
|
Examples of usage
- It's none of your business what I do in my free time.
- Let's get down to business and discuss the details of the project.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Developments
- The first known business partnerships date back to ancient Mesopotamia, involving traders and merchants.
- The creation of joint-stock companies in the 16th century allowed multiple investors to fund enterprises, leading to the rise of modern capitalism.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'The Wolf of Wall Street' and 'The Social Network' showcase the intense and often dramatic world of starting and running businesses.
- Popular reality shows such as 'Shark Tank' highlight entrepreneurs pitching ideas to investors, reflecting modern entrepreneurial culture.
Science and Technology
- The rise of the internet has transformed how businesses operate, allowing e-commerce to flourish and reach global markets.
- Artificial intelligence is now used by many businesses for customer service, data analysis, and even decision-making, pushing the boundaries of efficiency.
Economics
- In economics, businesses are essential for job creation and are often viewed as engines of economic growth.
- Supply and demand are core concepts that govern business operations, affecting pricing and availability of products.
Origin of 'business'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Old English term 'bisig', meaning 'careful' or 'anxious', reflecting the hard work involved.
- Initially, 'business' referred to a person's busy state or occupation, evolving into what we recognize today by the late 14th century.
The word 'business' originated from the Old English word 'bisignes' which meant 'care, anxiety, occupation'. Over time, it evolved to encompass commercial activities and professional endeavors. The concept of business has been integral to human societies throughout history, driving economic growth and innovation.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #166, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.