English Reference
noun · verb

finance

n. · v.
US /ˈfaɪˌnæns/ UK /fˈaɪnæns/ fi·nance UK spelling financed

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    n.the activity of managing money, especially for a company or a government.

    n.the management of large amounts of money by governments or large companies.

    Simple

    He decided to pursue a career in corporate finance after university.

    In context

    The minister's expertise in international finance helped the country navigate the global economic crisis with minimal disruption to the local market.

    Usage

    Uncountable in this general sense.

    money managementbanking
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.the money that a person, company, or country has available to spend.

    n.monetary resources, especially those of a public entity or a corporation.

    Simple

    The company's finances are in good shape after a successful year.

    In context

    The committee expressed concern regarding the city's finances, noting that the current deficit could impact essential public services.

    Usage

    Usually used in the plural form 'finances' when referring to a specific entity's money.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.a way of paying for something expensive by making small payments over a long time.

    n.the provision of a loan or credit arrangement to enable a purchase without immediate full payment.

    Simple

    We bought the new car on finance and will pay it off over four years.

    In context

    The dealership offered a competitive finance package with zero percent interest for the first twelve months of the contract.

    Usage

    Often used with the preposition 'on'.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to provide the money needed for a project, business, or purchase.

    v.to provide or obtain funding for a specific transaction, undertaking, or asset.

    Simple

    The local government will finance the building of the new library.

    In context

    The startup was financed primarily through venture capital, allowing the founders to scale their operations rapidly across three continents.

You've got your A-level results, your university place has been confirmed, and you're applying for student finance.

BBC News· 15 Aug 2026

The news conference at 09:00 ET (14:00 BST) will include government leaders in business, finance and economic development.

BBC News· 25 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated