Commerce

Definition

Commerce refers to the activity of buying and selling, especially on a large scale. It encompasses all transactions, including the exchange of goods, services, and information, typically involving financial transactions between businesses, consumers, and governments.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑːmɝːs/
• Respelling: KAH-murs

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒmɜːs/
• Respelling: KOM-urs

The pronunciation of "commerce" differs slightly between American and British English, primarily in the first vowel sound.

Etymology

The word "commerce" comes from the Latin word "commercium," which is derived from "com-" meaning "together" and "merx," meaning "merchandise." It entered the English language in the 16th century, primarily to describe trade activities.

Derivatives

• Commercial (adjective)
• Commodities (noun)
• Commercialize (verb)
• Merchant (noun)
• Merchandise (noun)

Synonyms

• Trade
• Business
• Exchange

Antonyms

• Noncommercial
• Barter (as non-monetary exchange)
• Inactivity

Usage

The term "commerce" is widely used in the context of business and economics. For example, "The growth of online commerce has transformed the global marketplace," or "The Chamber of Commerce promotes local businesses and trade."

Related Terms

• Economy: The wealth and resources of a region, particularly in terms of the production and consumption of goods and services.
• Industry: Economic activity concerned with the processing of raw materials and manufacturing of goods in factories.
• Trade: The action of buying and selling goods and services.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The activity of buying and selling, especially on a large scale: This meaning typically refers to the economic activities that involve the exchange of goods and services.
  • Example: "The development of infrastructure is crucial for boosting regional commerce."
• Interchange of goods and services, especially on a large scale between different countries: This usage of the term is often seen in discussions about international trade and global markets.
  • Example: "International commerce has been significantly impacted by trade agreements."