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Dictionary-enhanced synonyms

Synonyms for “Tariff” — 4 Other Ways to Say It

A tax on goods that enter or leave a country, often used to protect local businesses from foreign competition.

IPA: /ˈtærɪf/Level: B2Register: formalPart of speech: noun

Meaning of Tariff

A tax imposed by a government on imported or exported goods, usually designed to protect domestic industries or raise government revenue.

How to Pronounce Tariff

IPA: /ˈtærɪf/ Stress: Oo

TAR-iff. Stress the first syllable TAR. Two syllables: TAR-iff. The second syllable is unstressed with schwa sound.

Full pronunciation guide for tariff →

4 Synonyms for Tariff — Words Similar to Tariff

Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.

Smart Synonyms for Tariff — When to Use Each

import tax

Specifically taxes on incoming goods

customs duty

More formal legal/administrative term

trade tax

Broader term covering all trade-related taxes

How to Use Tariff and Its Synonyms in Sentences

  • The government imposed a new tariff on imported steel to protect domestic manufacturers. B2
  • High tariffs on agricultural products protect farmers in developing countries. B2
  • Trade negotiations focused on reducing tariffs between the two nations. B2

Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Tariff

What is another word for "tariff"?

Common synonyms for "tariff" include: import tax, customs duty, trade tax, excise tax.

What can I say instead of "tariff"?

Try one of these alternatives: import tax, customs duty, trade tax, excise tax. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.

Is "tariff" formal or informal?

"tariff" is generally used in formal contexts. Use it in writing, business, and academic settings.

When should I use "tariff" instead of "import tax"?

Use "tariff" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "import tax" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.

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