water company
- noun
- /ˈwɔːtər ˈkʌmpəni/
- The water company is responsible for ensuring that the tap water is safe to drink.
- a local water company
Like I extorted a water company.
- Like I extorted a water company.
Examples
-
If you have any issues with your supply, you should contact your water company for assistance.
-
I received a notice from the water company about scheduled maintenance in our area.
-
I thought you worked at the water company.
-
I shall call the gas company, or the water company.
-
For several years, our water company was owned by a large German corporation.
Blog text (12) -
Even when initial regulation is present, the water company and its customers always face the risk of additional regulation.
Academic text (1998) -
The water company has strong incentives to set initial offers that will be accepted.
Academic text (1998) -
Water industry reports do indicate that the water companies are very quick to respond to such emergency situations.
Academic text (1995) -
Water companies tend to act on the side of safety when public health matters are of concern.
Academic text (1995) -
Knowing this in advance, the water company might be reluctant to conclude certain kinds of contracts with potential water buyers.
Academic text (1998)
Synonyms
A service that supplies water, gas, or electricity to homes
An organization that provides essential services like water or electricity and is regulated by the government
A place or system that collects, cleans, and supplies water to people
A company that supplies water, electricity, or gas and is run under government rules
How Big
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning 'a company that supplies water' is directly and transparently derived from combining 'water' (the substance/service) with 'company' (an organization providing goods/services). This noun–noun compound follows a common and regular compositional pattern found across many languages, so a B1 learner who knows the constituents will readily infer the MWE meaning.
Etymology
The compound water company comes from the simple idea of a company that brings or sends water to people, first by barrels and carts and later through pipes. So a water company is a business that 'supplies' water to homes and shops.