agency
Meaning: An organisation that provides a particular service; the capacity to act
The word 'agency' refers to an organisation that provides a particular service, often as an intermediary. Common types include travel agencies, employment agencies, and news agencies. It can also mean the capacity to act independently ('human agency'). 'Through the agency of' means by means of.
Examples
- I booked my holiday through a travel agency. 我通过旅行社预订了假期。Reservé mis vacaciones a través de una agencia de viajes.旅行代理店を通じて休暇を予約しました。여행사를 통해 휴가를 예약했습니다.
- The government agency is responsible for food safety. 这个政府机构负责食品安全。La agencia gubernamental es responsable de la seguridad alimentaria.その政府機関は食品安全を担当しています。그 정부 기관은 식품 안전을 담당하고 있습니다.
- She works for an advertising agency in London. 她在伦敦的一家广告公司工作。Ella trabaja para una agencia de publicidad en Londres.彼女はロンドンの広告代理店で働いています。그녀는 런던의 광고 대행사에서 일하고 있습니다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: general
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Medieval Latin 'agentia', from Latin 'agentem' meaning 'effective, powerful', present participle of 'agere' (to do, to act). The business sense of 'an organisation acting on behalf of others' developed in the 17th century.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
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