When combined, 集团 (jítuán) literally means “gathered group.” This paints a clear picture of many individual entities (like smaller companies) being assembled into one massive, unified organization.
While 集团 is a modern business and political term, it resonates with the deep-seated Chinese cultural value of collectivism (集体主义, jítǐzhǔyì). The concept that the group's success and harmony are paramount is a cornerstone of Chinese society. In a Western context, words like “conglomerate” can sometimes carry a negative connotation, suggesting a faceless, sprawling entity that stifles competition. In China, being a 集团 is often a mark of immense success, scale, and even national pride. Companies that grow to become a 集团 are seen as powerful players on the domestic and international stage, sometimes referred to as “national champions.” Compared to the English word “company,” 集团 is much more specific. The standard word for company is 公司 (gōngsī), which can be any size from a small startup to a large firm. A 集团, however, specifically refers to a large holding company with multiple subsidiaries under its control. It signifies the top tier of the corporate world.
集团 is a formal term used primarily in business, economics, and politics.