Businesses Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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businesses
[ˈbɪznɪsɪz ]
Definitions
in the context of economy
Businesses are organizations or entities that engage in commercial, industrial, or professional activities, typically with the aim of generating profits.
Synonyms
companies, enterprises, firms.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| businesses |
Plural form of business, used to refer to multiple commercial entities.
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| companies |
Typically refers to larger, structured organizations engaged in commercial activities.
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| firms |
Commonly used in professional services, such as law or consulting; implies a smaller or specialized business.
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| enterprises |
Often used to describe large, complex business activities or formal business entities; can imply sophistication or scale.
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Examples of usage
- Small businesses are the backbone of the economy.
- Many businesses were affected by the recent recession.
in the context of trade
Businesses refer to the commercial activities involved in buying and selling goods and services.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| businesses |
Used broadly to refer to organizations involved in commercial, industrial, or professional activities. Suitable for both small and large scale operations.
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| traders |
Typically used to describe individuals or entities involved in buying and selling, especially in financial markets. It can have a somewhat specialized context.
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| merchants |
Often refers to individuals or entities that trade goods, particularly in historical or traditional settings. It has a somewhat old-fashioned or formal tone.
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| vendors |
Refers to sellers, often of specific goods or services, and is commonly used in the context of markets, fairs, or street sales. The term can imply a more individual, small-scale operation.
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Examples of usage
- International businesses often face challenges with customs regulations.
- Local businesses support the community.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Economic Impact
- Businesses play a crucial role in the economy, creating jobs and driving innovation.
- Small businesses make up more than 99% of all businesses in many countries, contributing significantly to local economies.
- The concept of startups has emerged, where young businesses leverage technology to disrupt traditional markets.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, businesses are seen as a route to upward mobility and wealth accumulation.
- Local shops and companies often embody the identity and character of their communities.
- The rise of social enterprises focuses not only on profit but also on social good, reflecting changing cultural values.
Technology and Innovation
- The digital revolution has led to e-commerce, enabling businesses to operate online and reach global markets.
- Businesses are increasingly using artificial intelligence to optimize operations and enhance customer experiences.
- Remote work technology allows businesses to operate from anywhere, reshaping traditional workplace structures.
Literature and Art
- Numerous novels and films explore the themes of capitalism and the moral dilemmas faced by businesses.
- The concept of the 'anti-hero' in literature often features business people who navigate ethical gray areas for success.
- Art depicting businesses can reflect societal values, revealing both admiration for and criticism of commercialism.
Origin of 'businesses'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'bisignis', which means 'care' or 'anxiety'.
- In the 16th century, 'business' began to refer to one's occupation, evolving into the modern sense of commerce.
- Before it referred to commerce, the term was often linked to personal affairs or the condition of being busy.
The word 'business' originated in the Middle English period, around the 13th century. It comes from the Old English word 'bisignes,' which meant 'anxiety' or 'care.' Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to one's work, occupation, or commercial enterprise. The concept of businesses has been central to human civilization and economic development.
See also: agribusiness, businessman, businessperson, businesswoman.