small business

American  

[smawl biz-nis] / ˈsmɔl ˈbɪz nɪs /

noun

1. a profit-seeking enterprise or concern that is independently owned and operated, has a limited number of employees, and is not nationally dominant in its field.

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Etymology

Origin of small business

An Americanism dating back to 1910–15

Example Sentences

Gambit received $3.3 million from the program early on and was hoping to get another $5 million of the Small Business Administration money, which is allocated by the military.

From Los Angeles Times

Other "transitional" reliefs are also being brought in to ease the move to the new system, including an extension of the "small business bonus" scheme which lifts smaller properties out of paying anything.

From BBC

Temi started a small business in Dunfermline, Fife, selling African groceries.

From BBC

Temi feels that ministers don't understand what small business owners need.

From BBC

“Shoplifting has a real impact, son. My business—any small business—is really hurt by even a small theft.”

From Literature