C1noun2K

Enterprise

UK /["/ˈentəpraɪz/"]/US /["/ˈentərpraɪz/"]/

Definition

a company or business

In simple words: A large business or organization.

Examples

  • The new enterprise has focused on renewable energy solutions to help combat climate change.
  • She decided to start her own enterprise after gaining experience in the tech industry.
  • The space mission was a daring enterprise that required months of preparation.
  • Launching a satellite into orbit is a complex enterprise involving many specialists.
  • His latest enterprise aims to provide affordable education through online platforms.
  • The interstellar ship named Enterprise became famous through the science fiction series.
  • They invested heavily in the enterprise to ensure it would succeed in the competitive market.
  • An enterprise of this scale demands careful strategic planning and strong leadership.

Usage notes

Used primarily in business contexts. Can imply a sense of innovation or initiative. Less common in casual conversation, more suitable for formal or professional settings.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'enter-' as in 'entering a big business venture'.

Collocations

  • large
  • large-scale
  • small
  • build
  • create
  • control
  • operate
  • expand
  • grow
  • in an enterprise
  • within an enterprise
  • great
  • exciting
  • ambitious
  • embark on
  • start
  • undertake
  • fail
  • succeed
  • in an/​the enterprise
  • free
  • private
  • local
  • encourage
  • promote
  • culture
  • great
  • show
  • a spirit of enterprise

Synonyms

  • venture
  • initiative

Antonyms

  • small business
  • startup
  • individual venture

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'entrepreneur' or 'entourage'.
  • Using it in informal contexts, like chatting with friends.
  • Incorrectly spelling it as 'enterprize'.