Asset

Definition

Asset refers to any valuable item, resource, or property owned by an individual, organization, or entity that is expected to provide future economic benefit. Assets can be tangible, such as buildings and machinery, or intangible, such as intellectual property and goodwill.

Parts of Speech

• Noun (a valuable item, resource, or property)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈæˌsɛt/
• Respelling: AS-et

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈæsɛt/
• Respelling: AS-et

Etymology

The word "asset" originates from the Old French term "asez" or "asetz," meaning "sufficiency" or "enough." The modern sense of "asset" as a valuable item or resource became more common in English by the 16th century, used in financial and legal contexts.

Derivatives

• Assets (plural noun)
• Asset class (noun)
• Asset-based (adjective)
• Asset allocation (noun)
• Asset management (noun)

Synonyms

• Property
• Resource
• Capital

Antonyms

• Liability
• Debt
• Deficit

Usage

The term "asset" is commonly used in financial, business, and economic contexts to describe valuable resources that are expected to provide future benefits. For example, "Real estate is often considered a strong asset class," or "Her skill in negotiations is a significant asset to the team."

Related Terms

• Liability: An obligation or debt owed by an individual or organization.
• Equity: The value of ownership interest in a company or property.
• Investment: The act of allocating resources, typically capital, to generate profit.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A valuable item or property owned by an individual or organization: Refers to resources or items with economic value that can be converted into cash.
  • Example: "The company’s assets include buildings, vehicles, and equipment."
• An advantage or positive quality that enhances an entity’s value: Refers to intangible assets, such as skills or reputation, that add value.
  • Example: "Her leadership skills are a valuable asset to the organization."