commercialism
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commercialism
The world of business and trade, especially when viewed negatively as purely profit-oriented and often at the expense of quality, art, or ideals.
Viele beklagen, dass Weihnachten immer mehr zum reinen Kommerz verkommt.
Many complain that Christmas is increasingly degenerating into pure commercialism.
The word 'Kommerz' (commercialism) is almost always used in German with a negative or critical meaning. It describes doing business in a way where ideals, art, or quality are subordinated to pure profit.
Kritiker werfen dem Filmfestival vor, nur noch auf den Kommerz zu achten.
Critics accuse the film festival of caring only about commercialism.
The negative meaning is reinforced by typical collocations. You often hear 'reiner Kommerz' (pure commercialism), 'dem Kommerz zum Opfer fallen' (to fall victim to commercialism), or that something 'zum Kommerz verkommt' (degenerates into commercialism).
Viele kleine Buchläden fallen dem kommerziellen Druck der großen Ketten zum Opfer.
Many small bookshops fall victim to the commercial pressure of the large chains.
The adjective 'kommerziell' (commercial) is derived from the noun 'der Kommerz' (commercialism). It means 'business-related' or 'profit-oriented' and, depending on the context, can be neutral or also critical.
Das Projekt war ein großer kommerzieller Erfolg.
The project was a major commercial success.
shop / business
Geschäft and Kommerz both refer to economic activities. Geschäft denotes neutral business operations or trade, whereas Kommerz usually has a critical tone and emphasizes a strong focus on profit. Use Geschäft objectively and Kommerz when criticizing this profit-oriented attitude.
Viele Besucher kritisieren den Kommerz der Veranstaltung und die hohen Preise.
Many visitors criticize the event's commercialism and high prices.
Das Geschäft des Unternehmens läuft trotz der schwierigen Lage gut.
The company's business is doing well despite the difficult situation.
