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tanning industry

tanning industry

4.1
A group of businesses that turn animal skins into leather
  • noun
  • /ˈtænɪŋ ˈɪndəstri/
translation icon : industria del curtido
  • The tanning industry plays a vital role in transforming animal hides into durable leather products.

Examples

  • Working conditions in the tanning industry have improved significantly over the past decade.

  • Environmental regulations have greatly affected how the tanning industry disposes of waste.

  • Many rural towns relied on jobs provided by the tanning industry.

  • The tanning industry has faced many challenges in recent years.

  • Many workers in the tanning industry are concerned about environmental regulations.

  • In recent years, innovation in the tanning industry has led to more sustainable practices and eco-friendly products.

  • Many students pursue careers related to the tanning industry due to its importance in the fashion and automotive sectors.

How Big

tanning industry
4.1
tannery
5 7.5

Surface Forms

Morphology

tanning + industry

This is a straightforward compositional noun phrase: 'tanning' (the activity of tanning — whether leather or cosmetic) combined with 'industry' (the commercial sector). A B1 learner who knows both words can reliably infer it refers to the commercial sector for tanning services/products; the meaning is literal and non-idiomatic.

Etymology

Tanning industry comes from the old process of using tree bark and other materials to treat animal hides; workers soaked hides in big vats so the skin turned brown and became strong. That's why the phrase refers to the businesses that process hides 'to make leather'.