for-profit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for-profit" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe organizations or businesses that operate to make a profit, as opposed to non-profit entities. Example: "The for-profit sector plays a significant role in the economy by driving innovation and creating jobs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

"These are for-profit companies.

The New Yorker

It's a for-profit venture".

The New York Times

Definitely for-profit!

The Guardian - Tech

Existing for-profit schools could remain open.

The New York Times

(The library is a for-profit venture).

The New York Times

They should not become for-profit commodities.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Some steal them for profit.

The New York Times

Most are not-for-profit.

The New Yorker

We're a not-for-profit.

The New York Times

Sell out for profit.

The New York Times

Positioned for profit".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing "for-profit" and nonprofit organizations, clearly state the distinctions in their goals and operational strategies.

Common error

Avoid assuming all "for-profit" entities prioritize profit over ethical considerations; many balance profit with social responsibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for-profit" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe entities or activities that are intended to generate financial gain. Ludwig examples demonstrate this in contexts like "for-profit companies" and "for-profit schools."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "for-profit" serves as an adjective denoting an organization's primary goal of generating financial gain. Grammatically correct and frequently used, it appears across diverse sources such as News & Media and Science. Ludwig examples illustrate its function in contrasting entities with non-profit organizations. While its register is neutral, awareness of potential biases associated with "for-profit" motives is crucial. When writing, ensure clear distinctions between "for-profit" and non-profit entities, and avoid oversimplifying the ethical considerations. Alternatives include "commercial", "profit-making", and "business-oriented", each carrying nuanced implications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Profit-oriented

Focuses on the intention or aim of making profit.

Profit-making

Directly states the act of making profit.

Commercial enterprise

Highlights the business or trade aspect of the entity.

Revenue-generating

Emphasizes the creation of revenue as a primary function.

Business-oriented

Highlights that the entity is directed toward business activities and profit.

Income-producing

Highlights that the entity's activities generate income.

Market-driven

Suggests that the entity's actions are primarily influenced by market forces and profitability.

Financially motivated

Focuses on the financial incentives behind the entity's actions.

Commercially viable

Indicates that the entity is able to sustain itself financially through commercial activities.

Wealth-creating

Emphasizes the creation of wealth as an outcome.

FAQs

How is a "for-profit" organization different from a non-profit?

A "for-profit" organization aims to generate profits for its owners or shareholders, while a non-profit focuses on a specific mission and reinvests any surplus revenue into furthering that mission. See also "non-profit".

What are some examples of "for-profit" industries?

Many industries operate on a "for-profit" basis, including technology, healthcare, retail, and finance. These companies seek to provide goods or services while generating revenue and profits.

Is it always bad if an organization is "for-profit"?

Not necessarily. While some may view "for-profit" motives with suspicion, these organizations can drive innovation, create jobs, and provide valuable goods and services. The key is ethical operation and balancing profit with societal needs.

What are the alternatives to saying "for-profit"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "commercial", "profit-making", or "business-oriented" to describe entities focused on generating revenue.