Deal: meaning, definitions and examples

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deal

[diːl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

business

An agreement entered into by two or more parties for their mutual benefit, especially in a business or financial context.

Synonyms

agreement, arrangement, contract.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
deal	This word is informal and can be used in everyday conversations when talking about business transactions, agreements, or any kind of understanding between two or more parties. Let's make a deal to finish this project by the end of the week. We got a great deal on our holiday package.
agreement	This word is more formal and typically used in legal, official, or business contexts to signify mutual consent between parties. It indicates that all parties have the same understanding. Both companies signed an agreement to collaborate on the new project. We came to an agreement after discussing the terms for hours.
contract	This is a very formal term used in legal and business contexts. It refers to a written or spoken agreement that is enforceable by law. She signed a contract to work with the company for two years. The contract clearly outlines the responsibilities of each party.
arrangement	This term is less formal than 'agreement' and usually refers to a plan or preparation made in advance. Arrangements often involve logistics and organization. We made all the arrangements for the wedding. Can we come to some arrangement about the work schedule?

Examples of usage

Let's make a deal.
She closed the deal with the client.
The deal was finalized after weeks of negotiation.
He is known for striking great deals.
We need to negotiate the terms of the deal.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

informal

An agreement or arrangement, especially a favorable one.

Synonyms

bargain, discount, offer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
deal	Use 'deal' when referring to an agreement or arrangement between two or more parties, often involving terms and conditions. It can also refer to a good price for a product or service. We made a deal to exchange services. That travel package is a really good deal.
bargain	Use 'bargain' when talking about buying something at a price much lower than usual. It can also refer to the act of negotiating a lower price. I found a great bargain at the flea market. She tried to bargain for a lower price at the store.
discount	Use 'discount' when referring to a reduction in the usual price of something. It is commonly used in retail and marketing. The store is offering a 20% discount on all items. Did you get a discount on those shoes?
offer	Use 'offer' when talking about presenting something for someone to accept or reject. It can also refer to special promotions or deals presented to customers. He made an offer to buy my car. Check out our latest offer on travel packages!

Examples of usage

It's a good deal for both parties.
She got a great deal on that car.
We're getting a good deal on the hotel room.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

business

To engage in commercial or financial transactions.

Synonyms

negotiate, trade, transact.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
deal	Act of distributing or handling something; often used in games or informal settings. Please deal the cards for the next round She deals with difficult situations very well
trade	Exchange goods, services, or assets; often used in a more formal economic or commercial context. Countries often trade goods to benefit their economies He decided to trade his old car for a new one
transact	Conduct or carry out business operations or activities; typically formal or legal context. They transact business primarily online Banks transact millions of dollars daily
negotiate	Engage in formal discussions to reach an agreement; typically in more serious, official, or business settings. They had to negotiate the terms of the contract for several weeks The company is negotiating a new trade agreement with partners

Examples of usage

They are dealing in real estate.
She deals in antique furniture.
He deals with high-profile clients.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word has Old English roots, with 'dǽlan' meaning to divide or distribute.
In the early 14th century, it also began to take on the meaning of making a business agreement.
It was adopted into Middle English, evolving in meaning as society shifted towards trade and commerce.

Economics

In business, a 'deal' often refers to negotiations where terms are agreed upon to benefit all parties involved.
Deals can range from simple trades among friends to complex agreements in multinational corporations.
The concept of closing a deal is crucial in sales, marking the final agreement between buyer and seller.

Pop Culture

The phrase 'Deal or No Deal' became popular through a game show where contestants choose between taking an offered amount or continuing in the game.
In popular music, many songs reference making deals or bargains, often metaphorically speaking about relationships or life choices.
Movies often depict deals as pivotal moments in plots, showcasing betrayal or unexpected twists.

Psychology

People often subconsciously evaluate deals based on perceived fairness and potential gains, as seen in social bargaining interactions.
Research shows that negotiations can be influenced by emotions, making understanding human behavior key in making favorable deals.
The concept of reciprocity plays a significant role in how deals are perceived, as people are more likely to agree if they feel they are getting something in return.

Literature

The term is frequently employed in literature today to explore themes of negotiation, trust, and moral dilemmas.
Classic stories often involve protagonists making deals with moral consequences, highlighting the complexity of choices.
In fables, characters often face deals that lead to important lessons about ethics and values.

Translations

Translations of the word "deal" in other languages:

🇵🇹 acordo

🇮🇳 सौदा

🇩🇪 Abmachung

🇮🇩 kesepakatan

🇺🇦 угода

🇵🇱 umowa

🇯🇵 取引

🇫🇷 accord

🇪🇸 acuerdo

🇹🇷 anlaşma

🇰🇷 거래

🇸🇦 اتفاق

🇨🇿 dohoda

🇸🇰 dohoda

🇨🇳 协议

🇸🇮 dogovor

🇮🇸 samningur

🇰🇿 келісім

🇬🇪 გარიგება

🇦🇿 müqavilə

🇲🇽 acuerdo

Word Frequency Rank

At #757 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.

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754 plaintiff
755 security
756 red
757 deal
758 giving
759 prior
760 risk
...