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Firm: meaning, definitions and examples

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firm

 

[fɜːrm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

business

A business organization, such as a corporation or partnership, that sells goods or services in order to make a profit.

Synonyms

company, enterprise, organization.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
firm

Typically used to refer to small to medium-sized businesses, often within professional services like law, consulting, or accounting.

  • She just got a job at a prestigious law firm.
  • The consulting firm is known for its expertise in business strategy.
company

A broad term that can refer to any business entity, large or small, across various industries.

  • He started his own tech company two years ago.
  • The company announced a new product today.
enterprise

Usually refers to a large and complex business or corporate entity. It's often used in formal or business contexts.

  • The enterprise has numerous subsidiaries across different countries.
  • Enterprise solutions are tailored for large-scale operations.
organization

A broad term that can refer to any structured group of people working towards a common goal, not limited to businesses; it can also include non-profits, clubs, and institutions.

  • She joined a non-profit organization that helps the homeless.
  • The organization is well-known for its environmental initiatives.

Examples of usage

  • She works for a large accounting firm.
  • The law firm specializes in intellectual property cases.
Context #2 | Adjective

strong

Resistant to pressure or damage; solid and stable.

Synonyms

hard, solid, stable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
firm

Use 'firm' when describing something that is fairly strong and not easily disturbed or moved, often used for physical objects or someone's resolve.

  • The chair has a firm cushion.
  • She has a firm belief in justice.
solid

Use 'solid' when you want to emphasize that something is firm and without any gaps, or to describe reliable and sound qualities.

  • The ice is solid enough to walk on.
  • He has a solid reputation in the business.
stable

Use 'stable' when referring to something that is steady and not likely to change or collapse, often used for objects, conditions, or mental states.

  • The table is stable on its four legs.
  • Her mood has been stable lately.
hard

Use 'hard' when describing something that is solid to the touch and difficult to break, or a task that is challenging to achieve.

  • The rock is very hard.
  • This math problem is hard to solve.

Examples of usage

  • The ground became firm after the rain stopped.
  • She gave him a firm handshake.
Context #3 | Verb

secure

Make (an agreement or plan) more definite and less subject to change.

Synonyms

confirm, establish, finalize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
firm

Use 'firm' when referring to a business or company, usually in professional or legal settings.

  • She works at a law firm.
  • The firm is hiring new employees.
confirm

Use 'confirm' when you need to validate or verify something.

  • Can you please confirm your attendance?
  • He called to confirm the appointment.
establish

Use 'establish' when you are creating or founding something, often used for organizations, rules, or relationships.

  • They want to establish a new charity.
  • The committee was established to review the policy.
finalize

Use 'finalize' when you are completing something or making it final.

  • We need to finalize the contract by the end of the week.
  • They are working to finalize the project details.

Examples of usage

  • They shook hands to firm the deal.
  • The details of the contract need to be firmed up.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'firm' comes from the Latin 'firmus,' meaning strong or solid.
  • It has been used in the English language since the 14th century, reflecting a long-standing concept of strength and reliability.
  • Originally, it was used in contexts relating to both physical and moral strength in various early texts.

Business

  • In commercial contexts, a 'firm' often refers to a business entity, showing its foundation in stability and commitment.
  • The business term emphasizes professionalism and security, as in a 'law firm' or 'accounting firm,' suggesting a reliable service.
  • Startups often strive to become 'firm' in their market, indicating their goal for longevity and resilience.

Psychology

  • People often perceive 'firmness' as a personality trait that indicates decisiveness and confidence.
  • In therapy, a firm approach can create a safe environment, allowing clients to feel secure in discussing their challenges.
  • Research shows that behaviors associated with being 'firm,' such as setting boundaries, lead to healthier relationships.

Literature

  • In poetry and prose, 'firm' can describe characters or themes that represent unwavering resolve in the face of adversity.
  • Writers often utilize the theme of firmness to contrast with fragility, deepening the emotional impact of their narratives.
  • Classic literature often features 'firm' ideals, like honor or duty, showcasing cultural values that resonate through time.

Everyday Use

  • In cooking, 'firm' often describes the texture of ingredients, like firm tofu or ripe avocados, indicating a certain readiness to eat.
  • Fitness enthusiasts might describe certain exercises or goals as 'firm,' emphasizing strength training and physical endurance.
  • In interpersonal communication, being 'firm yet fair' is a commonly accepted way to describe effective leadership style.

Translations

Translations of the word "firm" in other languages:

🇵🇹 empresa

🇮🇳 कंपनी

🇩🇪 Firma

🇮🇩 perusahaan

🇺🇦 компанія

🇵🇱 firma

🇯🇵 会社

🇫🇷 entreprise

🇪🇸 empresa

🇹🇷 şirket

🇰🇷 회사

🇸🇦 شركة

🇨🇿 společnost

🇸🇰 spoločnosť

🇨🇳 公司

🇸🇮 podjetje

🇮🇸 fyrirtæki

🇰🇿 компания

🇬🇪 კომპანია

🇦🇿 şirkət

🇲🇽 empresa

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,011, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.