noun phrase · neutral
public sector
/ˈpʌblɪk ˈsɛktər/PUB·lic SEC·tor
The part of the economy that is controlled or funded by the government, such as public services and agencies.
Examples
“Employment in the public sector often provides more job security than in the private sector.”
“The government increased wages for public sector employees.”
“Investing in the public sector can improve infrastructure and education.”
Band 8 sentence
“A balanced economy requires efficient private enterprise alongside a well-funded public sector that provides essential services.”
Collocations
- jobs in the public sector
- public sector spending
Word family
Common mistakes
public section→public sector
the public sector's→the public sector
Say it for a higher band
5state sector→6public service sector→7+public sector
Synonyms
state sector
Easily confused
private sector
“Private sector firms often focus on profit more than public sector organisations.”
Related words
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In Society & Government
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