profits - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
profits Word Meanings
- financial gain from a business activity
- the surplus remaining after total costs are deducted from total revenue
- the advantage or benefit gained from an action or situation
profits Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
profits Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈprɒfɪt/
US
/ˈprɔfɪt/
profits Word Etymology
profit = pro- (for) + fit (to make). Origin: Latin 'proficere' → Old French 'profit' → English. Visualize a person making money by putting their efforts forward, creating a successful outcome.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I lean over the desk and move the calculator across the numbers. I set aside the costs, change the revenue, and watch the balance change. I adjust my plan, hold steady, and keep going as the figures settle. By the end, profit stays as a little extra you can keep after the bills are paid.
Real Context
Profit means financial gain from a business activity. It also refers to the surplus remaining after total costs are deducted from total revenue. In everyday use, profit can describe any advantage or benefit gained from an action or situation. In business, people distinguish gross profit, operating profit, and net profit. Learners often mix up profit with revenue or earnings, or assume profit is the same as cash flow. Context matters: a company can report a profit while cash flow is weak. Think of profit as money earned after costs, and of its broader sense as a strategic advantage.
Usage Reminders
- Profit is not the same as revenue.
- Net profit is after all costs and taxes, not just gross income.
- Use 'profit' for financial gain or a strategic advantage.
- In business reports, specify gross, operating, or net profit.
- Use precise figures and units when talking about profits.
Common Misconceptions
- Profit is the same as revenue or sales
- Profit equals cash on hand immediately
- Gross profit is the same as net profit
- High sales guarantees profit
- Profit alone shows a company's overall health
Thinking Differences
In English, profit is primarily a financial metric after costs, but it also carries a broader sense of advantage. Learners often confuse profit with revenue or think gross profit equals net profit. The vocabulary of 'gross', 'operating', and 'net' helps precision, and context matters in choosing the right sense.
Learning Tips
- Learn the main senses: financial gain and a broader sense of advantage.
- Differentiate gross profit, operating profit, and net profit in context.
- Remember profit is not cash flow; profits can exist with weak cash flow.
- Practice common collocations: profit margin, profit sharing, profitable.
- Use precise numbers and units when stating profits.
- Know when 'to the profit of' is idiomatic in English.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of the word 'profits'?
A.The money lost in a business transaction
B.The expenses incurred in generating revenue
C.The financial gains made from a business activity
D.The process of selling items at a loss
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'profits' correctly?
A.They discussed the profits of a beautiful painting.
B.He profits to learn new skills every day.
C.The profits were higher than the costs.
D.She profits from her attention to detail.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'profits'?
A.losses
B.gains
C.expenses
D.costs
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'profits'?
A.investments
B.earnings
C.losses
D.revenues
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context that involves 'profits'?
A.The company celebrated its financial success last quarter.
B.After their investment, they were left with nothing.
C.They decided to increase the prices to boost sales.
D.The firm experienced a downturn in its operations.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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