Sales: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to refer to the activity of selling goods or services, particularly in a business context. It often involves effort to persuade customers to buy.

• The company saw a significant increase in sales last quarter.
• He worked in sales for over ten years.

Refers specifically to the process of buying or selling something, often documented and recorded. This term is common in banking and finance.

• The bank tracks all of your transactions for your account statement.
• Online transactions have increased significantly during the pandemic.

Used especially to describe interactions or transactions, typically business-related, between individuals or organizations. It can sometimes carry a neutral or slightly negative connotation if implying underhanded transactions.

• He was known for his honest dealings with clients.
• They had several business dealings together before starting a partnership.

Refers to the broader system of business activities involved in buying and selling goods and services, commonly on a large scale. It encompasses various sectors and industries.

• The rise of e-commerce has changed the landscape of traditional retail.
• Commerce between countries facilitates global trade.

Describes the exchange of goods and services, often between countries or businesses. It encompasses importing, exporting, and the negotiation processes involved.

• International trade agreements can affect local economies.
• She specializes in the trade of luxury goods.

Use when referring to the total number of units or products sold by a business. It is commonly used in retail and general business contexts.

• The company's sales increased by 20% last quarter.
• Holiday sales are crucial for the retail industry.

Use when referring to the total amount of money generated from sales or services before any expenses are deducted. It is used in business reports and financial statements.

• The company's annual revenue exceeded expectations.
• Advertising revenue is a significant part of their income.

Use when referring to the money earned by an individual or business after expenses and taxes are subtracted. It can be used both in personal finance and business contexts.

• Her monthly income is enough to cover all her expenses.
• The company's net income showed a significant increase.

Use when referring to the total sales generated by a business in a specific period, or in British English, it can also refer to employee attrition. In business contexts, it is often used to show the scale of business operations.

• The company reported a turnover of $1 million last year.
• High employee turnover can affect productivity.

Use when referring to the financial gain realized after subtracting expenses from revenue. This word is commonly used in business and financial analysis.

• The company's profits soared after the new product launch.
• He evaluates the profits before making any investment decisions.

Plural form of 'sale', refers to events or seasons where items are sold at reduced prices.

• The holiday sales start next week.
• She is waiting for the Black Friday sales to buy a new TV.

Used when prices are reduced, usually by a specific percentage or amount.

• This store offers discounts for students and military personnel.
• You can get a 10% discount if you buy more than two items.

Used to describe special deals or offers intended to promote a product or service. Could include discounts, freebies, or bundled deals.

• The supermarket is running a promotion on all dairy products this week.
• Check out our latest promotion: buy one, get one free.

Typically used when a store wants to quickly sell a large amount of stock, often to make room for new inventory. Usually involves deep discounts.

• We are having a clearance sale on all summer clothing.
• The warehouse is having a clearance event to get rid of old stock.

Often refers to temporary deals or unique offers that are available for a limited time.

• Today's specials include half-price appetizers and $5 cocktails.
• The store is offering weekend specials on all electronics.