trade associations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "trade associations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to organizations that represent the interests of businesses in a specific industry. Example: "The trade associations play a crucial role in advocating for policies that benefit their members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Trade associations are influential.

The Guardian

And the trade associations.

The New York Times

This distinction infuriated lobbyists for trade associations.

The New York Times

Later, he headed various trade associations.

The Guardian

They have no lobby, no trade associations.

The New York Times

Charity trade associations echoed the unease.

The New York Times

Corporations and trade associations are recruiting Democratic lobbyists.

The New York Times

Morti's support of the construction trade associations was known internationally.

The New York Times

Do contributions from trade associations or interest groups count?

The New York Times

The group represents more than 10,000 trade associations.

The New York Times - Sports

Trade associations, craft schools and specialized magazines also offer resources.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the lobbying efforts of industries, use "trade associations" to accurately depict their role in representing collective business interests to policymakers.

Common error

Avoid using "trade associations" interchangeably with labor unions. "Trade associations" represent businesses and industries, while labor unions represent workers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "trade associations" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying organizations that represent the collective interests of businesses within a specific industry. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Formal & Business

21%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "trade associations" is a common and grammatically correct term used to describe organizations representing the interests of businesses within a specific industry. As confirmed by Ludwig, its primary function is as a noun phrase identifying these entities, and its communicative purpose involves discussing their advocacy, support, and influence. The register varies from neutral to professional, with frequent usage in news, business, and economic contexts. When using the phrase, it's important to distinguish it from labor unions and to use it accurately when discussing industry-specific advocacy and lobbying efforts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Industry advocacy groups

Focuses on the advocacy aspect of these groups, highlighting their role in promoting industry interests.

Business leagues

Emphasizes the formal organizational structure and business focus of these associations.

Professional bodies

Highlights the professional nature and standards associated with membership.

Industry councils

Suggests a more advisory or deliberative role within a specific sector.

Sector-specific organizations

Emphasizes the focus on a particular industry or economic sector.

Commercial alliances

Focuses on cooperative arrangements between businesses for mutual benefit.

Industry federations

Implies a larger, more encompassing organization representing multiple related industries.

Chambers of commerce

Refers to local or regional organizations promoting business interests in a specific geographic area.

Employer associations

Highlights the representation of employers and their interests in labor-related matters.

Guilds

Historical term for associations of craftspeople or merchants, often with regulatory powers.

FAQs

What is the primary function of "trade associations"?

The primary function of "trade associations" is to represent the interests of businesses within a specific industry, often through lobbying, advocacy, and providing resources to their members.

Are "trade associations" the same as labor unions?

No, "trade associations" represent the interests of businesses and industries, while labor unions represent the interests of workers. They operate on different sides of the employment relationship.

What are some alternatives to the phrase "trade associations"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "industry advocacy groups", "business leagues", or "professional bodies".

How do "trade associations" influence policy?

"Trade associations" influence policy through various means, including lobbying policymakers directly, conducting public relations campaigns, and providing expert testimony on industry-related issues.