thesaurus of business and management terms
glossary of alternative words for common terms of business, management and work
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
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This thesaurus of terms for business and work is a simple quick tool for improving written and spoken communications. Choosing your words carefully is vital for effective communicating. Sometimes a common word is best replaced by a less common word. Sometimes a common word is better than an unusual word. Words must make sense and have relevance to the reader, and also reflect the tone and purpose of the communication. Being able to choose different words to suit different situations can help achieve this. This thesaurus offers ideas and suggestions of alternative words to help you choose and use the right words for reports, presentations, letters, and all other communications related to work, business, management, formal letters, contracts, adverts and notices. The listing below offers alternative words with the same or similar meaning, for when you need a replacement; perhaps because a word is not quite right, accurate, appropriate, or maybe because you've already used the word and don't want to repeat it. A thesaurus traditionally refers to a book which lists words with synonyms (other words meaning the same or similar). The word thesaurus came into English in the late 1500s from Latin, based on the earlier ancient Greek meaning of 'storehouse' or 'treasure'. This glossary is a virtual storehouse of treasure: words to help you write and speak more effectively for business and work, and in other formal situations. This thesaurus is not intended to be grammatically complete - it's a quick tool for finding alternative words, especially for business and work-related communications. More extensive listings and definitions of business terms are given in the business dictionary. Please send your suggestions for additional terms that you'd like to see in this thesaurus, and any corrections. Some of these terms have different meanings outside of business and management, and some can even have different meanings in different areas of business, so use this as a guide. Generally this thesaurus lists the most common business and work meanings of the words listed. Many of the words can be used as both nouns (things) and verbs ('doing' or 'action' words). Ensure you understand the sense in which you use the words you choose. Check your grammar, and check in a dictionary any words you are unsure about - this thesaurus is to give you ideas quickly when you need them, it's not a grammer-checker, nor does it offer all the different meanings which can exist for many of the words below. Please note that UK-English spellings for words such as colour, behaviour are different to US-English spellings (color, behavior). UK-English spellings of many words ending in 'ise', such as organise, realise, etc., may also appear on this page (compared to US-English 'ize'). Adapt the materials for your own situation accordingly.
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A
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
ability - skill, intelligence, competence, experience, expertise, capability
accelerate - hasten, increase, expedite
access - permission, entry, obtain
acceptable - reasonable, fair, appropriate
accessible - reachable, available, easily entered
accommodation - arrangement, agreement, place to stay or live
account - statement, description, report, facts
accountable - responsible, answerable, explainable, duty-bound
accountability - responsibility, duty, expectation, contract, deliverable, deliverables
accrue - increase, accumulate, grow, collect
achievement - goal, objective, target
acquire - obtain, buy, gain, procure, get, take over
act - deed, perform, execute, procedure
activity - action, job, duty
adapt - change, modify, adjust, alter
add - increase, calculate, attach
adjourn - pause, break, take a break, finish
adjunct - attachment, supplement, addendum
adjust - change, alter, rectify, amend, modify, make more suitable
adopt - accept, use, buy
adverse - negative, hostile, opposed, unfavorable
advice - input, help, assistance, recommendation, suggestion, feedback
advise - inform, help, tell, post, brief, notify, counsel, instruct
agency - organisation, service provider, representative organization
agenda - list, schedule, program, programme, concerns, motive, motives, wish-list, drivers, expectation, expectations
agent - contractor, operator, dealer, representative, middle-man
aggressive - determined, firm, pushy, vigorous
agreement - arrangement, promise, contract, understanding
aid - help, assistance, support
aim - goal, purpose, objective, intention
alliance - agreement, partnership
allot - share, apportion, distribute, allocate
allow - permit, let, agree, grant, concede
ambition - goal, desire, aspiration, hope, vision
amass - collect, gather, store, accumulate
amend - alter, change, correct, rectify, adjust, revise
amount - quantity, sum
analyse - examine, study, analyze
analysis - examination, study, exploration, assessment, calculation
annul - invalidate, cancel, dissolve, make void, nullify
appeal - request, plea, ask, attraction
application - request, use (of something)
appoint - choose, pick, elect, select
apportion - divide, share, allocate, distribute
appraise - judge, consider, examine, assess, review
appropriate - save, take, seize, keep
appropriate - acceptable, fair, reasonable, relevant
approval - agreement, permission, consent, endorsement
approve - agree, allow, permit, accept, grant endorse
aptitude - ability, skill, leaning, gift, talent
archive - collection, collect, store, file, documentation
arrange - plan, formulate, set, order, structure, manage, organise, organize
array - collection, group, number (of)
article - item, piece, thing, legal document
assemble - gather, collect, compile, fit together
assess - calculate, judge, measure, form an opinion, gauge, analyze
assessment - opinion, judgment, calculation, estimate
associate - colleague, member, co-worker, partner, business partner, contractor
assured - certain, definite
attach - join, connect, fasten, add
attribute - quality, feature, speciality, credit, specialty
authority - power, permission, control, sway, leading special knowledge
authorise - allow, permit, grant, authorize
available - free, ready, potential, offered, on offer
average - typical, normal, usual, mean, medium, standard, par
If the word(s) you are trying to find are not listed try the business dictionary
B
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
backup - copy, help, extra, contingency
bail out - rescue, leave
balance - remainder, amount owed, adjust, correlate, equalise, equalize
balloon - grow, expand, swell, enlarge
ban - disallow, bar, exclude, prohibit, embargo
bank - collect, store
barrier - problem, restriction, obstacle
basic - fundamental, intrinsic, foundational, simple
basis - reason why, motive, grounds
batch - group, collection, bundle, pack
battle - competition, struggle, argument, effort
beat - defeat, outdo, win, exceed, surpass
beleaguered - beset, experiencing difficulties, isolated, stranded, criticised, criticized
bespoke - tailor-made, made to measure
bet - gamble, risk, be rash, venture
bias - against, for, towards, tendency, influence in favour of, in favor of
bid - offer, attempt, tender
books - accounts
boost - increase, improve, strengthen, augment
boycott - avoid, refuse, shun
brand - type, design, kind, sort, trademark
branded - labelled, well-known, named, patented, labeled
breakdown - fail, failure, end, list of details
breakthrough - discovery, development, emerge
brief - instructions, explanation, summary, inform, short, concise, quick
build - increase, develop, progress, create
bulletin - report, news
burden - duty, responsibility, onus, difficulty
burgeon - rapidly grow, develop, escalate, swell
business - company, organisation, work, commerce, trade, affairs, organization, venture, corporation, enterprise, concern, activity
buy - purchase, obtain with money, invest in
buyer - purchaser, investor, customer
C
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
cancel - annul, discontinue, call off, stop, nullify
candidate - applicant, contender, entrant
cap - limit, surpass
caretaker - custodian, janitor
cargo - goods, freight, supplies, wares
catalogue - list, record , catalog
category - group, classification
cater - provide, supply
ceiling - limit, restriction, largest amount
certification - qualification, authentication
certify - authenticate, confirm, state officially
chain - group, series, line
change - alter, amend, replace, modulate, make different
channel - route, direct
charge - claim, accuse, responsibility
chart - list, diagram, graph, draw
charter - hire, lease, rent, record, permit written statement
chartered - qualified, hired, rented, leased
cheat - trick, deceive, defraud
check - stop, control, examine, investigate, halt make certain
chief - main, head, most important, highest ranking
choice - selection, range, option, good quality
circular - advertisement, publication, notice, letter, leaflet, notice, notification, flyer
circulate - spread, publish, pass round
claim - demand, request, state officially, state, legal right
classify - class, order, group together, categorise, categorize
clean - honest, harmless, debt-free, reliable (goods)
clear - remove, approve, finish, obvious, intelligible make sense
clearance - permission, sanction, leave
clientele - customers, clients, trade
clone - replicate, duplicate, exact copy
close - finish, cease, end activity, stop operating
code - standards, rules, regulations
collapse - fall, decrease, fail, ruin
collect - gather, obtain, bring together
combine - join, unite, put together
command - order, instruction, dominate
commerce - business, trade
commitment - promise, loyalty, agreement, duty, willingness
commute - journey, travel a regular route
company - business, organisation, corporation organization
compete - contend, vie
competence - ability, skill, knowledge, proficiency
competent - able, skillful, proficient, knowledgeable
compile - list, compose
compliance - obedience, submission
complimentary - gratis, free of charge gratis
component - part of a whole, factor, element, feature, piece item
comprise - consist of, include, have, made from
compulsory - obligatory, binding, incumbent, mandatory
con - trick, cheat, deceive, defraud, negative (opposite of 'pro')
concept - idea, principle, understanding
concession - compromise, trade, exchange, reduction in price, movement
conduct - behaviour, bearing, demeanour, attitude, guide, manage, behavior, demeanor
confer - discuss, consult, reward, bestow, give
conference - meeting, discussion, talks, debate, forum inquiry
confidence - trust, belief, positiveness, a secret, assurance conviction
confidential - private, secret, off the record
conform - obey, adapt oneself, accommodate
connect - join, link, attach, contact
consensus - general view, agreement
consolidate - bring or join together, combine, centralise, centralize
construct - build, make, formulate, erect
consultant - expert, troubleshooter, adviser, advisor
consumer - purchaser, buyer, user
content - parts, structure, information
contract - agreement, terms, engage
control - restrict, limit, manage, power, influence restrain rule over
convene - meet, gather together, organise a meeting
convention - meeting, gathering of people conference, practice conformity
convert - change from one form to another modify, win someone over
core - main, centre, essential, essence, most important center
corporation - company, business, venture, enterprise
correspondence - communication, letters, email, similarity, symmetry
corresponding - matching, connected, correlating, opposite
corrupt - dishonest, illegal, immoral, illicit, flawed, incorrect information, pervert, spoil, ruin
costing - estimating, pricing, cost, price, value, valuation, quote, quotation
counsel - adviser, lawyer
counsellor - troubleshooter, advisor, adviser, counselor
counterfeit - fake, forgery
coupon - voucher
cover - include, protect, conceal, provide a service
credentials - qualities, experience, references, endorsements,
crude - simple, inaccurate, makeshift, improvised, improvized
curb - control, limit, restrain, moderate
current - present, existing, topical, happening now
curtail - limit, reduce, shorten, cut
customer - buyer, purchaser, client, patron
D
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
data - facts, information, evidence
dealer - trader, merchant
declaration - affirmation, official statement
declare - state, announce, tell, divulge, speak affirm
decline - weaken, shrink, decrease
decouple - disconnect
decree - official order, decide, decision made in court
deduct - take away, subtract
deed - action, action, written agreement
deep - serious, extreme, profound
defect - fault, imperfection, shortfall, leave
defective - faulty, imperfect, incomplete
defend - protect, resist
defer - delay, put off
deficiency - lack, shortfall, defect, insufficiency
deflate - reduce, lessen, make smaller, ridicule
defraud - trick, be dishonest, obtain money illegally
defray - provide money
defunct - unused, extinct, dead, no longer existing
degrade - worsen, impair, disrespect
delete - remove, erase, obliterate, stop making
deliver - provide, produce, achieve, give
demand - firm request, order, require, claim
demonstrate - show, explain, prove
demonstration - explanation, proof
depart - exit, leave, go
dependent - controlled, connected, supported, reliant
deplete - reduce, waste, use up, exhaust
depreciate - detract, decrease in value, demonetise, demonetize, amortise, amortize
deputy - stand-in, substitute, proxy
design - plan, prototype, pattern, make, artwork
develop - grow, advance, produce, build, create become
device - object, tool, piece of equipment method (of doing something)
devise - plan, think of, invent, originate, conceive, innovate, create, conceptualise, conceptualize
diagram - drawing, plan, representation, picture, sketch, blueprint, map, image
dictate - control, influence, dominate
digit - number, character, finger
dilute - reduce, lessen effectiveness weaken
dimension - size, aspect
directory - list, listing, database
disallow - prohibit, exclude, refuse permission
discharge - sack, remove, give official permission carry out a duty
disclose - tell, reveal, expose
discontinue - stop, terminate
discount - ignore, disregard, reduction in price
discrepancy - disagreement, difference between two amounts ,
disintegrate - deteriorate, break up (into pieces)
dismiss - remove (person), sack, disregard, reject
dispatch - send, report
display - show, exhibit, arrange (items)
dispose - sell, get rid of
dispute - disagreement, argument, quarrel, argue
disqualify - prevent, exclude, ban, outlaw, reject
dissolve - end (contract or partnership), cease, cancel
distribute - supply, give, apportion, share out
diversify - modify, develop wider range, adapt, extend activities
divest - sell, get rid of, dispose of
division - unit, section, classification
doable - achievable, possible, can be done, viable, practical, practicable, feasible
docket - label, record, ticket
document - record, official paper
dodge - avoid, elude, evade
dominant - powerful, important, main, influential
dominate - control, influence
donate - give
done - completed, finished, ended
downgrade - reduce status, reduce value, make less important
driven - compelled, influenced
drop - weaken, lower, decrease, reduce, fall discontinue
duplicate - copy, reproduce
durable - strong, tough, Long-lasting
duress - threat, force
duty - obligation, task, work, job, tax necessity
E
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
earnings - profit, wages, salary, income
economic - profitable, cost-effective, viable, financial, commercial, trading
economical - good value, cheap, low-budget, affordable
edge - advantage, brink
effective - productive, successful, forceful, advisable
efficient - operative, not wasteful, skillful
elect - choose, vote for, chosen
eligible - included, have the right
emerge - appear, be disclosed
employ - use, engage, recruit, hire
employee - worker, staff member
emporium - shop, department store, depot
enable - empower, permit, facilitate
endorse - support, approve
enhance - improve, highlight
enquire - ask, find out , inquire
enquiry - question, request for information (RFI), inquiry
entitlement - claim, official right
equipment - tools, machinery, wherewithal
equity - money, capital, funds, asset, share
erode - weaken, impair, reduce
error - mistake, misjudgment
escalate - increase, grow, make more serious
establish - create, start, become successful demonstrate
ethic - moral, principle
ethical - right, morally correct or acceptable
etiquette - protocol, convention, rules of correct behaviour, behavior
evade - avoid, elude
evaluate - appraise, estimate, guess, assess
evaluation - opinion
evolve - develop gradually, become, unfold
exceed - outdo, be superior, overstep
exceptional - outstanding, unusually good, very unusual
execute - do, carry out, act, perform action or task
exercise - activity, keep fit, work-out, act, invoke, apply
excessive - exorbitant, unwarranted, superfluous, unreasonably high
exhibition - show, display, presentation
exit - leave, quit, sell (ownership of an enterprise)
exorbitant - overpriced, dear, extortionate
expand - grow, broaden, increase
experience - skill, knowledge, wisdom
expert - ace, skilled, proficient
expire - end, finish, elapse
explain - justify, account for, interpret
exploit - treat unfairly, take advantage of, misuse, make best use of
extend - lengthen, expand, lengthen, make longer, make (an offer)
F
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
fabricate - make, build, fake something, lie
facilitate - make easy, ease, accommodate, enable, help, coach, advise, mentor, provide
facility - building, factory, convenience, ease
facilities - buildings, services, equipment, means, scope
factor - quality, feature, component, cause, influence
failed - unsuccessful, fallen short
fair - acceptable, appropriate, just, honorable
fake - false, not genuine, imitation, sham
fall - decrease, drop, descend, fail
false - wrong, incorrect, not genuine, erroneous
faulty - imperfect, incorrect, inexact
feasible - possible, achievable
fee - charge (money)
feed - supply, provide
fickle - changeable, unreliable
firm - business, company
fixed - set, unchanging, habitual
flag - tire, weaken, mark (something)
flaw - mistake, imperfection, weakness
flood - deluge, numerous, many
flop - failure, washout, non-event, damp squib
flourish - grow, develop, prosper, be fruitful
flyer - leaflet
force - influence, power, energy, strength, personnel
forecast - predict, foretell
formal - official, correct, suitable
format - arrangement, plan, design
formulate - create, prepare, arrange
foundation - basis, source, beginning
fractional - unimportant, very small
freight - cargo, goods, merchandise
functional - working, practical, useful, instrumental
furnish - supply, provide, make ready
futile - useless, absurd, pointless
G
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
gamble - risk, speculate, uncertainty
gap - space, difference, requirement
gauge - measure, estimate, judge
generate - produce, create, cause
generic - standard, unbranded (product)
get - obtain, receive, understand
gimmick - trick, novelty, contrivance
glitch - problem, fault
global - worldwide, universal, inclusive
goal - aim, objective, ultimate
goods - products, merchandise
governance - control, power
grant - allow, permit, permission, consent
graph - plan
graphic - descriptive, representing
gratis - free, uncharged
grievance - complaint, discontent
ground - reason, basis, educate
grounding - training, knowledge
grow - increase, expand, mature
guarantee - promise, safeguard, legal agreement, make certain,
guest - visitor
guidance - help, advice, instructions, tips
guru - expert, sage
H
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
hallmark - sign, feature, indication, standard (of quality of something)
halo-effect - feelgood factor, positive reflection, positive association, reflected glory, (more about halo effect - see also BIRGing)
haggle - argue, barter, bargain
handbook - manual, instructions, notes, guide
hand-holding - supporting, buddying, supervising, helping
handle - deal with, manage, be responsible for, organise, organize
handmade - unique, individual, bespoke, high quality, exclusive, labour intensive, labor intensive, made by hand not machine or automated
harass - upset, annoy, frighten, intimidate, bully, exert force upon, pressurise, pressurize (a person or people)
hard copy - paper printed format (as distinct from electronic or digital format)
hardball - aggression, firmness, determination
hard selling - aggressive selling, pressure, strong persuasion
harmonise - combine, integrate, bring together (successfully), harmonize
harvest - profit, reward, reap reward, milk, exploit, monetise, monetize
haulier - transporter, carrier of goods
hazard - danger, obstacle, gamble, risk, obstacle, threat
hazardous - dangerous, damaging
headcount - employees, workforce, staff, team, labour force, labor force, workgroup
headline - main, overall, total, story, message
heads-up - warning, brief update, short report
head-to-head - confrontation, standoff, battle, fight, argument, debate (between two parties)
headway - gain, progress, increase, rise, improvement
heartland - centre, focus, epicentre, middle, core, heart, heartlands (usually an area of something successful or popular)
hedge - reduce risk, offset risk, protect against risk
help - aid, support, assist, buddy, mentor, guide, teach, assistance, care for, oversee, facilitate, enable
helpdesk - service, assistance, support, information (department or team or group)
hierarchy - structure, order, management structure, organizational structure, taxonomy, grouping, classification, system, pecking order
highlight - emphasise, indicate, make obvious, emphasize
hire - employ, rent, lease
hitch - problem, difficulty
hone - develop, improve, sharpen
hostile - unfriendly, adverse, attacking
hub - centre, focus, chief thing center
hypothetical - suppositional, imaginary
I
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
identify - find, discover
illegal - unlawful, prohibited, illicit
illicit - illegal, disallowed by law
image - impression, picture, copy, reflection
impact - influence, importance
imperfection - weakness, fault, blemish
improper - dishonest, inappropriate, inapt, disreputable
imprudent - unwise, not sensible, careless, risky, reckless
inactive - idle, inert, not working, not in use
inadmissible - disallowed, excluded
incentive - inducement, reward, motivation, something that encourages
incentivise - encourage, offer a reward, incentivize
income - earnings, wages, salary
incoming - arriving, received
incompetence - lack of skill or ability
independent - unconnected, uncontrolled, unsupported, unrelated
indicative - showing, suggesting, evidential
indicate - point, sign, show
inefficient - wasteful, unskillful, useless
ineligible - unqualified, rejected
inertia - inactivity, indifference
inflate - increase, enlarge
inflexible - rigid, unchangeable, unbendable, obstinate
influence - motivate, modify, bias, authority
inform - tell, relate, influence, educate
information - facts, details, data
inoperative - invalid, unusable, powerless, not working
inspect - check, scan, look closely at
instruct - tell, teach, train, inform, command
instruction - information, command
integrate - combine, put together
integrated - connected, combined
interim - lull, Short-term, not permanent
intermediary - middleman, mediator, facilitator
invalid - incorrect, unwarranted, officially or legally unacceptable
item - object, article, component
itinerary - schedule, journey plan, travel route, route, roadmap
J
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
jettison - reject, eject, get rid of
job - opening, position, opportunity, task, duty undertaking
jobless - unemployed, inactive
join - connected, fix, enroll, meet, bring together become a member
judge - decide, arbitrate, form an opinion, adjudicate
jump - rise, increase, leap, interval
jumpy - nervous, anxious, agitated
justify - explain, demonstrate, warrant
K
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
keen - eager, sharp, competitive, willing
key - most essential, most important, main, chief thing, crucial influential
keynote - important thing, chief thing
kill - spoil, destroy, stop
kit - tools, equipment, materials, parts
know-how - knowledge, experience, means, skill
knowledge - information, skills, understanding, comprehension, mastery
kudos - prestige, esteem
L
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
label - tag, brand, mark of identification
landmark - important event or achievement or matter
languish - fail, become weaker, be affected
latent - concealed, lurking
lateral - sideways thinking, different perspective
lawful - legal, licit, legitimate
lead - control, ahead, guide, advantage, direct
leading - best, managing, inspiring
learning - development, teaching, coaching, growth, edification, knowledge, experience, discovery
lease - rent, hire
legible - readable, intelligible, understandable
legislation - law, regulation
legitimate - legal, genuine, legally acceptable
leverage - influence, upper hand
liable - liable, responsible, legally responsible, punishable by law, subject to law, exposed to, open to, vulnerable
limit - restrict, restrain, restriction, bind
link - connect, join, relationship, communicate, intermediary
log - record, gauge, documentation, diary, journal
logic - reason, reasoning, rationality
loom - threaten, impend
low-end - cheap, inexpensive
loyal - faithful, trustworthy
lucrative - profit-making, gainful, money-making
lure - persuade, entice, tempt
M
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
magnate - tycoon, mogul, business chief
mainstream - usual, normal, main (part), tendency, mass
maintain - keep, continue, record, check, support sustain provide
majority - largest, greatest part, main part
make - create, form, build, produce, compel constitute
makeover - changeable, improve
malfunction - fail, stall, break down
manage - control, run, undertake, supervise, conduct
manager - boss, head, director, controller
mandate - official order or instruction charge, trust
mandatory - must-do, required by law, obligatory, compulsory, unavoidable, necessary
manipulate - control, influence, deceive, operate, misuse
manufacture - production, create, make or produce goods
marginal - small, unimportant, inconsiderable, insignificant,
marginally - slightly, insignificantly
markdown - cheapen, reduce price
marketable - easy to sell, saleable, attractive to employers or customers salable
marketeer - seller, salesperson
mark-up - increase in price, overcharge
mature - experienced, well-developed, well-established
maximum - greatest, largest, most
meagre - small quantity, poor quality, economical meager
mean - average, middle
mediate - moderate, intervene, negotiate, arbitrate
mediocre - average, not very good, middling, inferior
mega - impressive, greatest part, very large
memo - note, reminder
memorandum - report, proposal, record
menial - inferior, unskilled (work)
merchandise - goods, products
merchandising - selling
merge - combine, mix
middleman - intermediary, mediator, agent
milestone - important stage or event
mindset - attitude, fixed ideas
minimal - lesser, smallest or least amount
minimum - smallest or lowest possible
minted - recently produced or created very rich
miscellaneous - various, mixed, non-uniform
misconduct - malpractice, bad management, unacceptable behaviour, unacceptable behavior
mission - aim, goal, vocation, important job
mobile - moveable, transportable, moving
model - design, copy, prototype, form an opinion
moderate - reasonable, average, mild, middle of the road
moderator - intermediary, referee, mediator
modify - changeable, alter, vary, make more suitable
monitor - check, watch (something)
moribund - ineffective, inactive, dying, likely to fail
motion - proposal
motivate - encourage, push
mushroom - multiply, develop quickly, rapidly grow or increase
N
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
name - brand, repute, well-known person or company or product
need - requirement, require, shortfall
negligible - unimportant, inconsiderable
negotiate - make terms, discuss
negotiations - formal discussions, conference
no-frills - basic, unadorned
nominal - very small, insubstantial, trivial, in name only,
nominate - suggest, choose, select
nosedive - descent, sudden drop or fall
notable - noteworthy, person of repute, outstanding, remarkable, unforgettable
notional - estimated, guessed, suppositional
novel - new, interesting, amusing
nullify - invalidate, extinguish
number one - most important, best, premier, self
O
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
oath - promise, testimony, true statement
object - item, thing, purpose, goal, disagree
objective - aim, goal
obligation - duty, promise, necessity
observe - watch, study, see
observer - watcher, spectator
obsolete - outdated, disused, no longer in use
occupation - job, profession, interests
offend - upset someone, commit crime, displease
official - formal, authoritative, genuine, businesslike, authorised, authorized
opening - opportunity, job, starting
operate - control, use, work, function
operation - business, activity, undertaking
opinion - idea, conviction, persuasion, point of view
opportunity - opening, possibility, scope, chance
optimal - best, most likely to succeed
option - choice, decision, pick
order - request, demand, instruction, command, require
organisation - business, company, group, structure, corporation, organization
organise - arrange, plan, compose, organize
origin - source, starting place
oust - eject, force out
outcome - result, effect
outdated - outmoded, antiquated, old-fashioned
outline - description, overview, main points or facts
outstanding - notable, superior, not yet paid or done or solved
overachieve - do better than expected
overhype - exaggerate
override - overrule, stop, reject decision or order
oversee - supervise, watch (something), manage
oversight - mistake, negligence, forget to do something
overview - outline, general description
P
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
pact - agreement, promise, handshake
par - equivalence, expectation, forecast, standard
parameter - limit, target, border, guideline, constraint, measure
parcel - package, apportion, piece
pare - cut, reduce gradually
parity - similarity, being equal, balance, equality
partial - incomplete, fractional, in part
participate - cooperate, take part in, collaborate, partner
particular - specific, certain
particulars - details, information, description
patronage - support, protection, influence, custom
payback - reward, advantage, return, just desert
peg - fix (prices), hold
pending - waiting, undecided, in process, happening soon
perform - do, act, entertain
peripheral - unimportant, marginal, external, outside
perk - bonus, reward, benefit
permit - allow, let, right to do something
persuade - press, urge, convince, induce, cajole, pressurise, pressurize, sell
phase - stage, aspect, step, section
pick - choose, opt, take, select, selection, choice
picket - protest, obstruct, demonstrate, be obstructive
pigeonhole - classification, compartment, put into a particular group, categorise, categorize
pilfer - steal, thieve, rob
pitfall - difficulty, danger, peril, trap
placement - job, location
plan - chart, diagram, drawing, plot, vision, envision, intention, detailed arrangements, blueprint
plateau - level out, flatten, stabilise, stabilize
platform - basis, policy, standpoint
pledge - promise, formal promise, oath, bequeath, bequest, bequeathment
plummet - plunge, founder, fall suddenly
plunge - plummet, descend rapidly
pointer - sign, indication, indicator
policy - course of action, contract of insurance procedure,
pool - group, collect money or information store, joint possession
portable - moveable, transferable, easily carried
portion - part (of a whole)
position - place, job, opinion, prestige
positive - goods, useful, affirmative, believing
possessor - owner, holder
post - mail, job, situation, subsequent, after or later than, publish, announce,
postpone - defer, delay, put off until later
potential - possible, qualities that can be developed
power - control, influence, strength, energy, operate, authority
practice - action, custom, habitual, exercise, etiquette, usual way of doing something
practise - rehearse, repeat, act, do, behave
precise - exact, accurate, definite
prefer - choose, like better
preferential - giving an advantage to
prejudice - unreasonable dislike bigotry, have a harmful effect on
premier - most important, most successful, first showing of something
presentation - speech, show, formal introduction
press - persuade, push, request
prestige - respect, admiration, influence, importance
prestigious - admired, respected, important luxury
presumption - supposition
prevail - outweigh, override
prevailing - existing
prevalent - very common, extensive, universal
prey - easy target, victim
prey on - ill-treat, exploit, cause harm, con, trick
priceless - extremely valuable, important, very precious
pricey - expensive, dear
primary - main, fundamental, simple, most important
prime - main, most important, primary, excellent
principal - main, most important, rule, director, in general law
prior - previous to, previously, before, earlier, happening or existing before
prioritise - rank, put in order of importance, prioritize
priority - most important, precedence, to be dealt with first
privilege - special right or advantage
privileged - confidential information
prize - award, very valuable, desired object
probe - investigate, inquiry, ask questions
procedure - policy, usual or correct way of doing things
proceed - begin, starting place, commence, progress
productive - growing, making, gainful, profitable, achieving or doing a lot
profession - skilled job, vocation, trade, skill, qualification
proficient - able, skilled, practised, competent
profile - description, outline, shape, visibility, reputation
profitable - advantageous, prolific, money-making, viable, economical, rewarding
programme - program, schedule, agenda, course, itinerary
progress - develop, go forward, improve, improvement
prohibit - stop, prevent, restrain, bar, ban
promote - upgrade, make better, put forward, advance, advertise, market, sell
prompt - punctual, without delay, hint, remind
proportion - portion, part or share of a whole
proposal - plan, request, intention, formal suggestion
proposition - plan of action, business idea
proprietor - owner of business or land or property,etc.
prospective - potential, future, expected or likely to happen
prosper - flourish, be successful, develop successfully
provide - stipulate, give, make available
prudence - conservatism, caution, avoiding unnecessary risks
prudent - careful, sensible when making decisions showing care and though for the future
pull - influence, attract interest, cancel an event
punctual - on time
purchase - buy
pursue - follow, chase up
Q
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
qualified - experienced, knowledgeable, skilled, expert, prepared completed training passed exams
quality - high standard, feature, aspect, character
quantity - amount, number
quarantine - protection, seclusion
quarter - district, place, period of three months mercy
quasi - almost, partly, similar
query - question, ask, doubt
questionable - doubt, dishonest, wrong, disreputable
quit - leave, close, depart, resign
quota - portion, fixed amount, limited number
quotation - price, referral, estimated cost of job or service
quote - repeat, cite, illustrate, instance, quotation
R
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
raise - increase, mention, elevate
rally - incite, assembly, give courage
random - orderless, indiscriminate, done or chosen without prior thought
range - variety, vary, series, scope, portfolio
rank - position, classification, importance
ratchet - increase by small amounts
rate - measure, amount, decide, estimate, price
ratify - endorse, make legal
rationale - enquiry, reasons or principles (that explain a decision) , inquiry
reach - attain, arrive, achieve, communicate with
react - be active, respond
reactive - showing a response
ready-made - pre-prepared, prepared in advance
reap - accumulate, take, gather, gain, obtain, attain, benefit from
reasonable - acceptable, appropriate, fair, moderate, rational
rebate - refund, discount
recall - remember, call something in
recap - repeat, go over, give summary
recede - retreat, become smaller, become weaker, withdraw
recipient - receiver, acceptor, taker
reclaim - restore, get back (something)
recognise - know, remember, see, recognize
recommend - suggest, advise
reconcile - pacify, make (figures) agree
reconstruct - rebuild, remake, restore
record - describe, written account
recoup - get money back, recover, retrieve
recover - get something back improvement, recoup, restore
recuperate - improve, get money back
redefine - change limits or nature of something
redress - correct something, remedy
reduce - lessen, shrink, make smaller
redundant - jobless, useless, unused
re-evaluate - re-think
refer - describe, indicate, speak about
refine - make pure, improve, purify
reform - transform, make better, improve
refurbish - repair, redecorate
regain - acquire, get something back
regarding - about, concerning, relating to
region - area, locality
register - enrol enlist, officially record something, enroll
regress - recede, fall back, make or become less advanced
regular - frequent, usual, standard
regulate - control, supervise, supervize
regulation - rule, law, legislation
reimburse - pay back (money), repay
reinforce - strengthen, support, make stronger
reject - inferior, unusable item, refuse to accept
related - connected, akin
release - liberate, make something available to free from duty,
reliable - trustworthy, trusty, correct, true, credible, certain
relief - help, aid
remedy - cure, solution, improve bad situation
remote - far, distant, secluded
remove - dismiss from job, get rid of, take out, take away,
rent - lease, hire
repair - mend, make good, fix
reply - answer, rejoinder, reaction, response
represent - sell for, act or speak for, deputise for, deputize for, symbolise, symbolize
reputable - honest, honorable, respected, credible, established, well-regarded, trustworthy
request - ask
require - need, necessitate, fall short
rescue - save, defend
research - study, inquiry, experiment
reserve - available supply, substitute, modesty, put something by for later
reshuffle - change, change around, restructure, re-order, reorganise, reorganize
resilient - strong, able to recover quickly
resistance - opposition, dislike of, obstinacy, refusal to accept something
resolve - find a solution, formally reach a decision intend,
resources - means, supply of something, energy, energies, fuel, materials
respond - reply, react, answer, cooperate
responsibility - duty, onus
restraint - limit, moderation
restrict - limit amount or size of keep under control
result - outcome, product, completion
retail - sell
retain - keep something, hold something back preserve
retract - recant, withdraw a statement make smaller in amount or value
retrieve - find, recoup, get something back
revamp - repair, improve appearance of
review - report, consider or examine something rectify
revoke - cancel, not retain, end validity of
rise - ascend, increase in amount or level
risk - danger, peril, chance, speculate
rival - competitor, contender
roadmap - plan, vision, milestones, project plan, masterplan
role - function, position (of somebody)
rotate - change regularly, pass to each member in regular order
ruin - damage, spoil, make someone lose all their money
rules - regulations, orders
running - managing, operating
S
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
salary - wages, pay, earnings
salvage - restore, save (from being destroyed)
sample - tester, taste, example, small amount
satisfactory - acceptable, sufficient, good enough
saturate - drench, overproduce, over supply
savvy - knowledge, understanding
scale - range, spectrum, measure, gauge
schedule - timetable, plan, list
scheme - plan, system
scrap - cancel, annul, piece, stop using
screen - check, inquire
scrutinise - scan, look at or examine closely, scrutinize
secondary - inferior, unimportant, less important
section - department, subdivision, part, department
secure - safe, protected, achieve (something)
seek - pursue, look for, search, try to obtain
segment - division, divide, part of something
select - choose, pick, opt for, carefully chosen, excellent
seller - vendor, trader
semi - half, partly, incomplete
sensitive - aware, understanding, discriminating, react quickly, (information) not to be shared
serve - provide, help, spend time, do duty for
setback - difficulty, problem, delay, hitch
shed - decrease, emit, get rid of
ship - send, transport, carry
shopper - buyer, purchaser
shortage - lack, shortfall
shortfall - shortage, less (than is needed)
short-staffed - Short-handed, understaffed
shrewd - intelligent, showing good judgment clever at understanding
simulate - imitate, create artificially
sink - decrease, deteriorate, suppress
situation - circumstance, circumstances, predicament, position, matter, issue, subject, concern, job, opportunity
skill - ability, competence, expertise, dexterity
skilled - experienced, qualified
slash - reduce something by a large amount cut
slice - a share, portion, piece, part of something
slogan - by-line, tag line, maxim, advertisement
slump - decline, decrease, deteriorate, sudden fall
smart - intelligent, clever, advanced (technology)
snip-a-bargain - good value
sole - only, one
sort - arrange, classification, put in order, a type (of something)
sound - reliable, sensible when making decisions, undamaged, good and thorough, in good condition
spec - specification, detailed description
special - unusual, chosen, out of the ordinary
specialist - expert, highly skilled person
specific - special, particular, clearly defined, precise and clear
specify - explain, name, give exact instructions state (something)
split - divide, apportion, share (something)
sponsor - supporter, backer, patron
stable - steady, unchanging, firmly fixed
stagnant - inert, undeveloping, unchanging, not growing
staple - basic, important (part)
static - unchanging, undeveloping, not moving
status - position, situation, prestige, level of something or somebody
statute - law, legislation, formal rule
stipulate - state clearly, demand, specify
stipulations - requirements, conditions, demands, specifications
stranglehold - complete control, retention
strapline - slogan
strategic - planned
strategy - a plan, tactics, policy
stress - pressure, importance, emphasis, emphasise, emphasize
strife - contention, a quarrel, angry disagreement
stringent - severe, very strict, strictly controlled
sue - litigate, claim damages in court
sundry - various, many, unimportant
superintend - oversee, manage, supervise
supply - provide (something) amount provided, make available for use
support - help/er, aid, resource/s, encourage/ment, advocate, augment, bolster, protect/ion, insulate/insulation, addition, add to
surpass - outdo, be superior
surplus - glut, superfluity, extra, more than is needed
suspend - delay, put off, prevent from happening or being used halt temporarily defer debar from job or duties temporarily as a punishment
swindle - cheat, deceive, act fraudulently
T
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
tactical - schematic, worked out, carefully planned, strategic
talent - aptitude, natural ability, gift, passion, calling
tangible - touchable, existing, clearly seen
target - goal, aim, objective
task - job, duty, piece of work
team - group, unit, outfit, company
template - model, mould, example mold
temporary - short-term, non-permanent, makeshift
tender - bid, offer
tentative - experimental, cautious, provisional, not definite,
terminate - end, conclude, close, finish, discontinue
territory - area, zone, ground, pitch
text - meaning, precept, written words
textile - fabric, material
theory - idea, opinion, supposition
thrive - prosper, flourish, become strong or healthy or successful
tier - level, layer, series
token - symbol, indication, trivial, gift, security
top flight - best, most successful, highest
train - teach, instruct, tutor, coach, mentor, educate, edify, nurture, develop, school, explain, impart (facts/information), prepare, prime, demonstrate, illustrate
training - learning, development, course, trainings, coaching, mentoring
transfer - move over, carry, duplicate, displace
transferable - moveable, negotiable, transportable, communicable
transparent - clear, unambiguous, open, artless, not secret, easily understood
U
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
ultimatum - conditions, final warning, threat, deadline
uncontested - unopposed, undisputed
undertaking - task, project, promise, agreement, commitment
undisclosed - concealed, hidden, not made known
undue - unreasonable, unnecessary, unwarranted, undeserving
uneconomic - wasteful, unprofitable
unemployed - jobless, out of work, unused
unexpired - valid, remaining, still in force
unethical - immoral, dishonest, morally unacceptable
unfriendly - hostile, opposing, antagonistic
unique - special, unusual, inimitable, one of a kind
unlawful - illegal, illicit
unmanageable - uncontrollable, disobedient, difficult to deal with
unofficial - illegal, independent, unauthorised, unauthorized
unprofitable - uneconomic, unproductive, profitless
unscrupulous - dishonest, not fair, not honest, without morals,
unskilled - untrained, unqualified, inexpert
unveil - introduce, disclose, show (something)
upbeat - positive, enthusiastic, optimistic
update - provide recent information, modernise, modernize
upkeep - maintenance, preservation
upmarket - expensive, dear, good quality
upsurge - sudden large increase
used - second-hand, pre-owned, employed, utilised, utilized
V
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
vacancy - job, job opening, job opportunity
vacant - empty, not being used
vacation - holiday
valid - genuine, legally or officially acceptable
value - worth, price, importance
vanilla - ordinary, not special
variable - changeable, non-uniform
vendee - buyer, property purchaser
vendor - seller, supplier
venture - enterprise, speculate, undertaking, business project or activity
verbal - spoken, unwritten
vet - examine, check, screen (something or someone)
viable - possible, cost-effective, safe, can be done or achieved or used, likely to be successful
virtual - almost, nearly, not completely, electronic, digital, web-based
vision - concept, idea, notion, plan, scheme, shape, dream, aspiration, ambition, wish, thought, intent, intention
void - nullify, not legal, invalid (contract)
volatile - excitable, transient, suddenly changeable
voluntary - uncharged (fee), offered, done willingly
W
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
waged - salaried, having regular paid work, employed
wake-up call - sudden warning
walkout - strike (by workers), fail in duty
warranty - guarantee, security
wastage - shrinkage, loss
whistle-blower - informer
white elephant - bane, useless (big, expensive) thing
wind-up - close down, liquidate, terminate, cease
workforce - staff, labour force , labor force
X
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
x-rated - adult, pornographic, unsuitable for children and under-age people
Y
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
yardstick - gauge, a measure
yes - okay, affirmative, confirmed, agreed, understood
yield - produce, submit, relinquish
Z
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
zeal - keenness, willingness, enthusiasm
zenith - summit, top, peak
zero hour - departure, beginning (of operation)
Please send your suggestions for additional terms, and any corrections.
see also
business dictionary - lots more terms with definitions
marketing theory and methods - including marketing glossary
sales and selling methods - including selling glossary
business planning process and templates - including business planning glossary
financial terms and ratios - a glossary of main financial accounting terms
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