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dealing
When used to describe business trade, the word often functions as an uncountable noun referring to the general profession or industry of commerce. However, when referring to specific interactions or transactions between parties, it almost always appears in the plural form "dealings."
There is a strong pragmatic tendency to use the plural "dealings" when the context is suspicious or unethical. While "dealings" can be neutral, phrases like "shady dealings" or "secret dealings" are common, whereas the singular "dealing" is more frequently used to describe a general manner of behavior or a professional trade.
Meanings
The activity of buying and selling goods, especially on a large scale or as a business.
The company has a long history of dealing in rare antiquities.
The way in which a person behaves towards others, especially in business or social relations.
I have had very little dealing with the new management so far.