small businessman
Definition
Noun: A small businessman is an individual who owns, operates, and assumes the risk for a commercial enterprise that employs a relatively limited number of people, typically fewer than 100.
Usage
The term is used to specifically describe the owner-operator of a small-scale enterprise, distinguishing them from executives of large corporations. It emphasizes personal management, direct involvement, and limited scale.
Examples
- The local small businessman knew all of his customers by name.
- Many small businessmen struggled to access loans during the economic downturn.
- She started as a small businesswoman selling handmade crafts online.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used in economic and policy discussions to refer to a demographic seen as vital to local economies and job creation.
- While traditionally male-gendered ("businessman"), the inclusive forms small business owner or small businesswoman are increasingly common.
Variants and Related Words
- Small business owner: A more modern and gender-neutral synonym.
- Entrepreneur: A broader term for someone who starts and runs a business, which can range from very small to very large ventures.
- Shopkeeper: Specifically refers to the owner of a retail shop, which is often a type of small business.
- Sole proprietor: A legal term for an individual who owns an unincorporated business by themselves.
Synonyms
- Small business owner
- Shopkeeper
- Proprietor
- Entrepreneur (in the context of a small venture)
Antonyms
- Corporate executive
- CEO of a multinational
- Big businessman
- Industrialist
Noun
-
a businessman who runs a business employing less than 100 people
