English Expression · Intermediate
common carrier
A company providing public telecommunications facilities
Pronunciation: say common carrier
Meaning
A person or company that transports goods or passengers for the public for a fee, often subject to specific legal regulations.
Example
The railways were 'common carriers' - they had to move any load they were offered, even if it was uneconomic to do so. Road hauliers could pick and choose their loads.
The railways were 'common carriers' - they had to move any load they were offered, even if it was uneconomic to do so. Road hauliers could pick and choose their loads.
Practice tips
- Practice common carrier out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for intermediate-level learners.