A2noun2K

Businessman

UK /["/ˈbɪznəsmæn//ˈbɪznəsmən/","/ˈbɪznəsmen//ˈbɪznəsmən/"]/US /["/ˈbɪznəsmæn//ˈbɪznəsmən/","/ˈbɪznəsmen//ˈbɪznəsmən/"]/

Definition

a man who works in business, especially at a high level

In simple words: A person who works in business and makes money.

Examples

  • a group of visiting Italian politicians and businessmen
  • a successful/wealthy businessman
  • For many years he was a successful businessman, running his own small business.
  • I should have got a better price for the car, but I'm not much of a businessman.
  • He has a reputation as a shrewd businessman.

Usage notes

Used to describe someone who operates a business, often in a formal or professional context. Avoid using in casual conversations where more specific roles can be mentioned, like 'entrepreneur' or 'manager'.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'business' + 'man' — a man running a business.

Collocations

  • successful businessman
  • experienced businessman
  • young businessman
  • local businessman
  • ambitious businessman

Synonyms

  • entrepreneur
  • executive
  • tycoon
  • industrialist
  • capitalist

Antonyms

  • businesswoman
  • employee

Common mistakes

  • Assuming it only refers to men; it can refer to anyone in business.
  • Using it in informal contexts when a more specific job title is appropriate.
  • Confusing it with 'businessperson', which is gender-neutral.