ENGLISH
REFERENCE

incorporated

v. · adj.
US //ˌɪnˈkɔɹpɝˌeɪtɪd// UK //ɪnkˈɔːpəɹˌeɪtɪd// in·cor·po·rat·ed
  1. 1 included or combined (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to include something as part of a larger group, system, or plan.

    to include or integrate something as a constituent part of a larger whole. Often used in the passive voice or as a past participle.

    Example

    The new design incorporated many suggestions from the customers.

    Example

    The final report incorporated data from several independent studies to provide a more comprehensive overview of the environmental impact.

    Usage

    Often followed by the preposition 'into'.

  2. 2 legally formed company (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate American English Law

    describes a business that is officially registered as a legal company.

    formed into a legal corporation; specifically, a business entity where ownership is divided into shares and liability is limited.

    Example

    The small family business eventually became an incorporated company.

    Example

    Once the firm became incorporated, the founders were no longer personally liable for the company's mounting debts.

    Usage

    In American English, often abbreviated as 'Inc.' after a company name.

    Teacher's tip

    In British English, the term 'Limited' (Ltd) is more commonly used for this specific legal status.

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