partnership
PAHT-nuh-shihp
Partnership (noun) means a relationship in which two or more people or groups work together toward a shared goal. Example: “The two charities formed a partnership to fund the new shelter.”
noun
1
A relationship in which two or more people or groups work together toward a shared goal.
"The two charities formed a partnership to fund the new shelter."
"Their partnership lasted through good times and bad."
"The school and the local museum have a partnership to teach children history."
2
A legally recognised business owned and run by two or more people.
"The accountants set up a partnership instead of a corporation."
"Each partner in the partnership is liable for its debts."
"The two friends registered their bakery as a partnership and shared the profits equally."
How to use partnership
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA joint arrangement — either a close working relationship or a formally shared business.
Common pairings
enter into a partnership
business partnership
strategic partnership
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Word forms
- Plural
- partnerships
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The two charities formed a _____ to fund the new shelter.
Etymology
From partner plus the suffix -ship, denoting a state or condition.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for partnership
See all rhymes for partnership →Frequently asked questions
What does “partnership” mean?
The word “partnership” means a relationship in which two or more people or groups work together toward a shared goal. In plain terms, a joint arrangement — either a close working relationship or a formally shared business.
How do you pronounce “partnership”?
“Partnership” is pronounced PAHT-nuh-shihp (/ˈpɑɹtnɚʃɪp/ in IPA).
How do you use “partnership” in a sentence?
Here is “partnership” used in a sentence: “The two charities formed a partnership to fund the new shelter.”
What part of speech is “partnership”?
“Partnership” is a noun.
Is “partnership” a common word?
“Partnership” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “partnership” have?
“Partnership” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a relationship in which two or more people or groups work together toward a shared goal.
What are the types of partnership?
In business, common forms include the general partnership, where all partners share management and liability; the limited partnership, where some partners invest but take no active role; and the limited liability partnership (LLP), which protects partners' personal assets. More broadly, the word also covers strategic, community, and personal partnerships between people or organisations.
What is the difference between a partnership and a company?
A partnership is owned and run by two or more partners who typically share the profits and, in many forms, the debts personally. A company is a separate legal entity from its owners, offering limited liability so their personal assets are usually protected. Companies face more regulation; partnerships are simpler but carry greater personal risk.
What makes a good partnership?
Strong partnerships rest on shared goals, trust, and clear communication. Partners bring complementary skills, agree on how decisions and profits are handled, and stay honest about problems. Mutual respect and a fair balance of effort and reward keep the relationship healthy, whether it is a business venture, a sports pairing, or a personal collaboration.
What is an example of a partnership?
Two friends opening a café together form a business partnership. A charity and a local company working jointly on a project form a partnership, as do two countries cooperating on trade. In sport, a pair of players combining well are said to have a good partnership. Each involves people or groups pursuing a shared aim.
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