Words / B1

uh-KOWNT-ing/əˈkaʊntɪŋ/

Accounting is the work of recording and checking money: accounting standards; a degree in accounting. Accountancy is a close UK twin for the profession. Bookkeeping is the day-to-day recording. Uncountable. Do not write “an accounting” for one invoice — that is an account or a bill. Creative accounting is a news phrase for bending the rules.

Meaning

The work of recording and checking a company’s money.

Examples

• “She studied accounting at college and now works for a charity.”
• “She studied accounting and now works in the NHS finance team.”
• “Poor accounting hid the true cost of the project.”

Good to know

Uncountable: accounting; accounting standards. Profession twin: accountancy. Day-to-day: bookkeeping. Not one bill.

Near in meaning

accountancy

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