WordGarden.iocommerce
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /kˈɒmɜːs/
US
- /ˈkɑmərs/
Meanings
Noun
the buying and selling of goods and services, especially as business activity
Beyond the definition
Commerce isn't just about money changing hands—it's the whole vibrant world of buying and selling! Think of a bustling marketplace filled with merchants hawking their wares, or even ordering something online. That's commerce in action. It encompasses all activities related to the exchange of goods and services, from the wholesale distribution of coffee beans to shipping them across the ocean to your local café. Commerce isn't limited to physical products either; it includes things like insurance, transportation, and banking—everything that makes trade possible. A thriving commerce system is vital for any society to flourish.
Commerce refers to the activities involved in the distribution and exchange of goods and services. It's more than just a simple transaction; it's a complex web connecting producers, sellers, and consumers. Imagine ancient caravans traveling the Silk Road—that was commerce! Today, it looks different: online marketplaces like Amazon, international trade agreements, and even your local farmers' market all fall under the umbrella of commerce.
Historically, commerce developed alongside civilization, evolving from bartering systems to complex monetary economies. It's driven by supply and demand, influenced by factors like geography, technology, and political policies. "International commerce" refers to trade between countries, while "domestic commerce" happens within a single nation.
The term can also be used more broadly to describe the entire economic system of a region or country. For example, you might hear about "the future of e-commerce" or "the impact of globalization on global commerce." Commerce isn't just about making a profit; it's about creating value and satisfying needs within a society. It's the engine that drives economies and connects people across the globe.
Examples
- 1
Regional trade
The port became a major center of commerce in the region.
- 2
City links
New roads made commerce between the two cities much easier.
- Patterncommerce between + places
business activity linking those places
- 3
Trade agreement
The agreement allowed more commerce with neighboring countries.
- Patterncommerce with + country/group
trade involving that country or group
- 4
Local economy
Many small towns rely on summer tourism to keep local commerce alive.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Online business
The internet has changed commerce by letting small businesses sell to customers worldwide.
- 6
Business group
She joined the local chamber of commerce to meet other business owners.
- Phrasechamber of commerce
a local group that supports businesses
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- commercial activity
- market activity
Contrast
- noncommercial activity
- subsistence
Used with (collocations)
- international commerce
- interstate commerce
- electronic commerce
- chamber of commerce
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- commercenoun