B1noun1K

Profit

UK /["/ˈprɒfɪt/"]/US /["/ˈprɑːfɪt/"]/

Definition

the money that you make in business or by selling things, especially after paying the costs involved

In simple words: The money you make after costs are taken out.

Examples

  • The company reported a significant profit last quarter.
  • To maximize profit, businesses need to minimize costs.
  • His advice was to invest in stocks with higher profit margins.
  • The charity's goal was to profit from the fundraising event to support local projects.
  • After many years, she finally began to see a profit in her small bakery.

Usage notes

Use 'profit' in business contexts. It’s appropriate in neutral settings but avoid using it in casual conversations unless referring to financial matters. In discussions about losses, use it in contrast.

Grammar pattern

profit + from + activity

Memory hint

Think of 'profit' as 'pro-fit' — being fit means being ahead in money.

Collocations

  • big
  • considerable
  • decent
  • bring
  • bring in
  • deliver
  • climb
  • grow
  • increase
  • margin
  • rate
  • sharing
  • against profits
  • at a profit
  • for profit
  • a decline in profits
  • a fall in profits
  • an increase in profits

Synonyms

  • gain
  • earnings
  • yield
  • return
  • benefit

Antonyms

  • loss
  • deficit

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'loss' and forget the opposite meaning.
  • Using 'profits' when referring to a single gain.
  • Confusing 'profit' with general financial terms like 'income'.