business card
B1Neutral to formal, primarily professional.
Definition
Meaning
A small card printed with a person's name, job title, and professional contact details, used for networking and introductions.
A physical or digital token representing one's professional identity and facilitating connections; by extension, something that serves as a concise identifier or credential for a person, organization, or concept.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The term is a compound noun. It primarily refers to a physical object but is increasingly used for digital equivalents (e.g., vCard, QR code link). It implies a professional context; a similar item for personal contact is often called a 'calling card' or 'personal card'.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical difference. Spelling may follow regional conventions (e.g., 'organisation' vs. 'organization' on the card itself). The concept and usage are identical.
Connotations
Identical in both regions. Carries connotations of professionalism, networking, and formal business etiquette.
Frequency
Equally common and essential in professional contexts in both the UK and US.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
hand [someone] a business cardexchange business cards with [someone]print business cards for [the team]have [one's] business card readyVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “It's your business card to the world.”
- “His integrity was his business card.”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Essential for networking events, meetings, and conferences to exchange contact information professionally.
Academic
Used by academics at conferences, though content may emphasize institutional affiliation, publications, or research areas.
Everyday
Less common; typically used when someone is discussing their job, a new contact, or professional materials.
Technical
In design/printing, refers to a specific product with standard dimensions (e.g., 85mm x 55mm). In tech, refers to digital contact files.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- He was business-carded by three recruiters before he reached the bar.
- I need to get business-carded before the conference.
American English
- She business-carded everyone at the meetup.
- Make sure you business-card the key attendees.
adverb
British English
- He introduced himself business-cardly, with a quick handshake and a proffered card.
American English
- She networked business-cardly, moving from group to group.
adjective
British English
- He gave a very business-card smile—polite but impersonal.
- The meeting had a business-card formality to it.
American English
- Her business-card demeanor was all about efficiency.
- It was a business-card relationship, nothing more.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- This is my business card. My email is on it.
- She gave him her business card.
- Do you have a business card I could take?
- I must remember to order new business cards next week.
- The quality of your business card can create a lasting first impression.
- They exchanged business cards after finalising the deal.
- His minimalist business card, featuring only his name and a QR code, was a deliberate branding choice.
- In the digital age, the business card has evolved but remains a ritualistic token of professional intent.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a card that means BUSINESS. It's not for playing games; it's for making professional connections.
Conceptual Metaphor
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY IS A CARD; NETWORKING IS EXCHANGING TOKENS.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct calque 'бизнес карта' (incorrect). The correct translation is 'визитная карточка' (vizitnaya kartochka) or 'визитка' (vizitka).
- The word 'business' here does not mean 'дело' or 'предприятие', but specifies the card's purpose.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect plural: 'businesses cards' (correct: 'business cards').
- Using it for non-professional contexts (e.g., a card with just a personal phone number).
- Misspelling as 'bussiness card'.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a business card?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically includes full name, job title, company name, phone number, email address, and physical or website address. Company logo is common.
In casual settings, no. In dedicated professional networking events or formal business meetings in certain cultures (e.g., Japan, South Korea), it may be seen as unprepared or disrespectful.
Historically, a calling card (or visiting card) was used for social visits. A business card is explicitly professional. Today, 'calling card' can also metaphorically mean a distinctive mark.
Yes. Despite digital tools, the physical card offers a tangible, memorable touchpoint and is crucial in many cultures and formal business rituals.
Explore