INDUSTRY Synonyms: 28 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'industry' distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of industry are business , commerce , trade , and traffic . While all these words mean "activity concerned with the supplying and distribution of commodities," industry applies to the producing of commodities, especially by manufacturing or processing, usually on a large scale.

Q: When might 'business' be a better fit than 'industry'?

While the synonyms business and industry are close in meaning, business may be an inclusive term but specifically designates the activities of those engaged in the purchase or sale of commodities or in related financial transactions.

Q: How do 'commerce' and 'trade' relate to one another, in the sense of 'industry'?

Both commerce and trade imply the exchange and transportation of commodities.

Q: When could 'traffic' be used to replace 'industry'?

The meanings of traffic and industry largely overlap; however, traffic applies to the operation and functioning of public carriers of goods and persons.

industry

noun

ˈin-(ˌ)də-strē

Definition of industry next

as in effort

attentive and persistent effort he isn't the smartest kid in class, but he gets the best grades by determined industry

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How is the word industry distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of industry are business, commerce, trade, and traffic. While all these words mean "activity concerned with the supplying and distribution of commodities," industry applies to the producing of commodities, especially by manufacturing or processing, usually on a large scale.

When might business be a better fit than industry?

While the synonyms business and industry are close in meaning, business may be an inclusive term but specifically designates the activities of those engaged in the purchase or sale of commodities or in related financial transactions.

How do commerce and trade relate to one another, in the sense of industry?

Both commerce and trade imply the exchange and transportation of commodities.

When could traffic be used to replace industry?

The meanings of traffic and industry largely overlap; however, traffic applies to the operation and functioning of public carriers of goods and persons.

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of industry There is compelling industry data to support the growth and important of AI, robotics, and climate tech as well as the overall venture market. —

Anis Uzzaman, Fortune, 6 May 2026 The tribute recognizes Canadians whose success opens the way for industry change and access for members of underrepresented communities. —

Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 6 May 2026 The fuel acts as a replacement for RP-1 and RP-2 liquid rocket propellants widely used in the space industry. —

Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 6 May 2026 The mayor's office collaborated with the publication i-D to spotlight six local fashion industry professionals. —

Dalila Muata, NBC news, 5 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for industry

Recent Examples of Synonyms for industry

Noun

Jessica Chmielewski, Colleen Gartlan and Ella Riordan led a strong defensive effort in front of Noone.

— Steve Millar, Chicago Tribune, 29 Apr. 2026
The effort will focus on solutions that can be adapted elsewhere in the world, such as sustainable finance, digital innovation and workforce development.

— Jennifer Bringle, Footwear News, 28 Apr. 2026