Tariff Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tariff

[หˆtรฆrษชf ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

financial

A tariff is a tax imposed by a government on goods and services imported from other countries. Tariffs are used to protect domestic industries, raise revenue, and address trade imbalances.

Synonyms

customs, duty, levy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tariff

Used when referring to a tax imposed by a government on imports or exports of goods. It can also mean a schedule of prices or fees.

  • The government decided to impose a tariff on imported cars.
  • The hotel's tariff for a single room has increased.
duty

Often used interchangeably with 'tariff,' but generally refers to the specific tax imposed on certain goods. It can also mean a moral or legal obligation.

  • The duty on alcoholic beverages is quite high.
  • It is our duty to help those in need.
customs

Refers to the authorities or the process involved in enforcing tariffs and collecting duties on imported goods. Commonly used in the context of border crossings and international trade.

  • We had to declare all items at customs.
  • The package is being held up in customs.
levy

Refers to the act of imposing or collecting a tax, fee, or fine. Often used in the context of government or official authority imposing these charges.

  • The government plans to levy a new tax on digital services.
  • A levy was imposed on homeowners in the neighborhood.

Examples of usage

  • The government imposed a 25% tariff on imported steel.
  • Companies are concerned about the impact of tariffs on their bottom line.
Context #2 | Noun

telecommunications

In the context of telecommunications, a tariff is a price list or schedule of charges for services provided by a telecommunications company.

Synonyms

charge, fee, rate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tariff

Used primarily in the context of taxes on imported or exported goods. Often associated with trade policies and international business.

  • The government imposed a new tariff on imported steel to support the local industry
rate

Used to describe a price set per unit, a ratio, or a measurement over a specified period. Frequently used in financial, rental, and employment contexts.

  • The hourly rate for consulting work is $50
  • The hotel offers a special weekend rate
fee

Refers to a payment made for professional services, memberships, or certain privileges. Typically used in contexts involving professional services, education, and memberships.

  • The lawyerโ€™s fee was quite high
  • There is an enrollment fee for the new fitness club
charge

Commonly used to describe a cost or price demanded for a service or product. Can be used in various everyday and professional settings.

  • There is a small charge for delivery
  • The hotel charges extra for using the Wi-Fi

Examples of usage

  • The new tariff plan offers unlimited data at a competitive price.
  • Customers can choose from a variety of tariffs based on their usage needs.

Translations

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Origin of 'tariff'

The word 'tariff' originated in the late 16th century from the Italian word 'tariffa', which meant a list of prices or duties. The concept of tariffs has been present in international trade for centuries, with governments using them to regulate trade and protect domestic industries. Tariffs have been a source of contention in trade negotiations and have evolved over time in response to changing economic conditions and trade agreements.


See also: tar.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,788, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.