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selling

v. · n.
US //ˈsɛɫɪŋ// UK //sˈɛlɪŋ// sell·ing
  1. 1 the act of trading for money (v.)
    A1 Beginner

    the action of giving something to a buyer for money.

    the present participle and gerund of 'sell', describing the ongoing act of commercial exchange.

    Example

    He is selling his old car to a neighbor for a very good price.

    Example

    The company is currently selling its European assets to focus more heavily on emerging markets in Southeast Asia.

  2. 2 the business activity (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    the work or business of persuading people to buy products.

    the activity or profession of promoting and exchanging goods for money.

    Example

    Online selling has become much easier with modern apps.

    Example

    The rise of direct-to-consumer selling has fundamentally altered the traditional retail landscape over the last decade.

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  1. 3 salesmanship skill (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the skill of being good at persuading people to buy things.

    the art or skill of salesmanship and persuasion in a commercial context.

    Example

    She is very successful because her personal selling is so natural.

    Example

    Effective selling requires a deep understanding of psychological triggers and the ability to build immediate rapport with a potential client.

Idioms1 entry

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