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Definition business in British English

business noun

noun
/ˈbɪznəs/
1

the work of buying or selling products or services for money

Example

representatives from business and politics

Example

I found them very easy to do business with.

Example

It was a mistake to go into business with my brother.

1.1

connected with business, or with people who work in business

Example

our latest business venture

Example

the business community (=all the people who work in business)

Example

a business associate/partner

Example

the business section of the Sunday paper

Synonyms and related words
1.2

used for talking about how well a company or industry is doing

Example

We're hoping that business will improve this year.

Example

Cheap imports are damaging our business.

Example

Business was booming (=doing very well).

Example

A little controversy will be good for business.

Synonyms and related words
1.3

used for talking about how many customers or contracts a company or industry has

Example

They're trying to attract business by cutting prices.

Example

a potential source of new business

Example

Companies risk losing business if they don't accept the Euro.

Synonyms and related words
1.4

a particular area of business

Example

What business are you in?

Example

I have a few contacts in the music business.

Synonyms and related words
1.5

used for talking about business compared to things that you do when you are not working

Example

Are you here for business or pleasure?

Example

a business lunch/trip/meeting

Example

Jonathan was away on business.

2

an organization that buys or sells products or services for money. This word often refers to a small organization that is owned and run by one person or a few people, while company can also refer to large organizations

Example

a small family business

Example

Matthew's little shop has turned into a thriving business.

Example

Many small businesses fold (=fail) in their first year.

Example

Sheryl's parents run a small clothing business.

Example

After leaving school, Bob started his own computer business.

Synonyms and related words
3

something that you have to deal with

Example

Is there any other business to discuss?

Example

We've still got some unfinished business to settle.

Example

Nancy had left the business of looking after the dog to her brother.

Synonyms and related words
4

something that affects or involves a particular person and no one else

Example

It's my business who I go out with.

Synonyms and related words
5

something that has happened, especially something that has caused problems and has been continuing for a long time

Example

This business about housework has to be resolved.

Example

I'm fed up with the whole business.

Example

Ever since that business with her boyfriend, Becky's been really depressed.

Synonyms and related words
6

to urinate or excrete

Example

A cat is doing its business in a litter box.

7

willing/unwilling to do the thing named

Example

I am not in the prediction business and my opinion can change rather quickly.

8

if something is none of your business, you should not ask about or get involved in something that is private

Example

"How old are you?" "None of your business."

Definition business in British English