company
9 synonyms and 0 antonyms for company, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A business organization that sells goods or provides services.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use company
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French compaignie ("companionship"), related to companion — literally those who "share bread."
Full origin of company →Frequently asked questions
What does “company” mean?
The word “company” means a business organization that sells goods or provides services. In plain terms, a business, or the presence/companionship of other people, or a performing group like a theatre troupe.
How do you pronounce “company”?
“Company” is pronounced KUHMP-nee (/ˈkʌmpəni/ in IPA).
How do you use “company” in a sentence?
Here is “company” used in a sentence: “She started her own company after years of working for others.”
What is another word for “company”?
Words with a similar meaning to “company” include have sex and make love.
What part of speech is “company”?
“Company” is a noun.
Where does the word “company” come from?
The word “company” comes from Old French. From Old French compaignie ("companionship"), related to companion — literally those who "share bread.".
Is “company” a common word?
“Company” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “company” have?
“Company” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a business organization that sells goods or provides services.
What is the difference between a company and a corporation?
'Company' is a general word for any business that sells goods or services. A corporation is a specific legal structure: a business that has been incorporated so it counts as a separate legal entity from its owners, who gain limited liability. Every corporation is a company, but not every company is a corporation.
What is the difference between a company and a business?
'Business' is the broader term, covering any commercial activity, from a market stall to a global brand. A company is a business that has been formally organised as a single entity, often registered and with a legal identity. All companies are businesses, but a business need not be a company.
What are the main types of company?
Common forms include private limited companies, public limited companies whose shares are traded openly, partnerships, and limited liability companies. They differ in how ownership is divided, how profits are shared, and how much personal responsibility owners carry for debts. The right structure depends on size, funding, and risk.
What is an example of a company?
Apple, Toyota, and your local supermarket chain are all companies — organisations set up to sell goods or provide services for profit. A company can be a global giant with thousands of staff or a small firm run by a handful of people; the defining feature is organised commercial activity.