Profited Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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profited

[ˈprɒfɪtɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

financial gain

Profited refers to the act of gaining a financial advantage or benefit from an investment, trade, or business activity. It indicates that the outcome of a venture has resulted in surplus earnings beyond the initial costs. In broader terms, profiting can also refer to gaining an advantage in non-financial contexts, such as acquiring knowledge or experience. The term is commonly used in discussions related to economics and business. Ultimately, to profit signifies a positive return from an endeavor.

Synonyms

benefited, earned, gained, reaped, yielded.

Examples of usage

  • The company profited significantly from its new marketing strategy.
  • She profited from her investments in the stock market.
  • After a year of hard work, they finally profited from their small business.
  • He profited immensely by purchasing real estate at the right time.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Economics

  • Profits are essential for businesses, as they indicate financial health and the ability to reinvest in growth.
  • The concept of profit is key in determining supply and demand dynamics within a market economy.
  • Different types of profit exist, including gross profit, operating profit, and net profit, each reflecting various expenses and revenues.

Psychology

  • Research shows that the anticipation of profit can significantly influence decision-making and risk-taking behaviors.
  • People are often motivated to pursue profits as it can provide a sense of achievement and security.
  • Behaviors around earning profits can lead to both positive outcomes (incentives) and negative tendencies (greed or unethical behavior).

Pop Culture

  • In many films, characters often face moral dilemmas regarding profit, such as prioritizing greed over relationships.
  • Popular TV shows about entrepreneurs often highlight the challenges and successes of trying to increase profits.
  • Songs about working hard can often include themes about seeking profit and success in business.

Business

  • Understanding how to profit is a foundational concept in business courses and entrepreneurship training.
  • Startups often aim for 'profitability' as a key milestone, indicating they'll eventually sustain themselves financially.
  • Companies use various strategies, like lowering costs or increasing sales, to maximize their profit margins.

Origin of 'profited'

Main points about word origin

  • The word derives from the Latin 'proficere', meaning 'to make progress' or 'to advance'.
  • In Middle English, it was spelled as 'profit' and referred mainly to financial gain or benefit.
  • The term has been used in economic contexts since at least the 14th century.

The word 'profit' derives from the Latin word 'proficere,' meaning 'to advance' or 'to make progress.' This Latin term is composed of 'pro,' signifying 'for' or 'in favor of,' and 'facere,' meaning 'to do' or 'to make.' Over time, the term evolved through Old French as 'profit' and entered the English language in the late 14th century. Initially, it was used broadly to refer to any gain or advantage, but it gradually acquired its modern financial connotation, specifically related to earnings beyond expenditures. The concept of profit has played a central role in economics, influencing businesses and individual financial strategies throughout history.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,839, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.