industry

word

/ˈɪndəstɹi/
IN-duh-stree
/ˈɪndʌstɹˌi/
IN-duh-stree

Definition

Industry is the production of goods in factories and businesses, or a particular area of business activity such as film, tourism, or technology. It can refer both to manufacturing in general and to a specific economic sector.

Usage & Nuances

Common patterns are 'the car industry', 'the music industry', and 'work in the industry'. It is often used for any business sector, not only factories. Don't confuse it with 'factory', which is a single place, or with the older meaning 'hard work', which is uncommon in everyday English.

Example Sentences

My father works in the industry.

basic

The industry needs more workers this year.

basic

Tourism is an important industry here.

basic

The tech industry changes so fast that it's hard to keep up.

natural

She spent ten years in the film industry before starting her own company.

natural

A lot of people want to break into the fashion industry.

natural