Definition
As a Noun
- Ream (noun): A ream is a standard package of 500 sheets of paper, commonly used in office and educational settings. It serves as a fundamental unit of measure in the paper industry.
As a Verb
- Ream (verb): To ream can mean to bore a hole in something or to squeeze the juice out of an object. Metaphorically, it is often used to indicate achieving a significant victory or advantage over an opponent, as in, “We reamed them.”
Examples
Noun Usage
- Office Supplies: “Please order two reams of printer paper for the office.”
- Print Shop: “The print shop always keeps a dozen reams in stock for large projects.”
Verb Usage
- Mechanical Process: “The worker used a drill to ream the hole for the new pipeline.”
- Metaphorical Usage: “In the final match, our team reamed the competition, scoring five goals to none.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a ream of paper used for?
A ream of paper is typically used as a standard measurement for purchasing and using paper in bulk, essential in offices, schools, and print shops.
How many sheets are in a ream of paper?
A ream traditionally consists of 500 individual sheets of paper.
Can the term ‘ream’ be used in different contexts?
Yes, ‘ream’ can also be a verb and is used to describe the action of boring a hole or squeezing juice out. It has a metaphorical application where it denotes achieving a significant victory.
Is ‘ream’ used internationally?
Yes, ‘ream’ as a unit of 500 sheets of paper is used internationally, though the exact number of sheets may vary slightly in different countries.
Related Terms
- Quire: A quire is a set of 25 sheets of paper, which is one-twentieth of a ream.
- Bundle: In the paper industry, a bundle often refers to a set package of papers, typically more than a ream.
- Drilling: The action of using a drill or similar tool to bore holes into materials.
- Juicing: The process of extracting juice from fruits or vegetables, often used metaphorically similar to ‘ream.’
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Paper Trail: An Unexpected History of a Revolutionary Invention” by Alexander Monro
- “The Office Copying Revolution: History and Impacts” by Alan Sinclair
- “The Oxford English Dictionary” - for extended definitions and examples.
- “Advanced Technical Drilling Techniques” by Simon Dennis - for an in-depth understanding of drilling and similar mechanical processes.
Fundamentals of REAM: Business Terminology Basics Quiz
### How many sheets are typically in a ream?
- [x] 500 sheets
- [ ] 100 sheets
- [ ] 200 sheets
- [ ] 300 sheets
> **Explanation:** A ream traditionally consists of 500 individual sheets of paper, making it a standard unit in the paper industry.
### Which industry most commonly uses the term 'ream' as a noun?
- [x] Paper Industry
- [ ] Finance Industry
- [ ] Technology Industry
- [ ] Healthcare Industry
> **Explanation:** The paper industry commonly uses the term 'ream' to denote a package of 500 sheets of paper.
### In a metaphorical sense, what does it mean to "ream" someone?
- [ ] To provide assistance
- [ ] To deliver a message
- [x] To achieve a significant victory over them
- [ ] To offer support
> **Explanation:** Metaphorically, 'to ream' someone means to achieve a significant victory over an opponent.
### Which of the following actions does NOT relate to the verb 'ream'?
- [ ] Boring a hole
- [ ] Squeezing juice out
- [x] Writing a report
- [ ] Achieving a significant victory
> **Explanation:** Writing a report does not relate to the verb 'ream.' It is used for boring holes, squeezing juice, and metaphorically for significant victories.
### What does 'quire' relate to in terms of paper?
- [x] 25 sheets of paper
- [ ] 500 sheets of paper
- [ ] 1000 sheets of paper
- [ ] A single sheet of paper
> **Explanation:** A quire is a set of 25 sheets of paper, which is one-twentieth of a ream.
### In which situation would you NOT use the verb form of 'ream'?
- [ ] When drilling a pipe
- [ ] When extracting juice
- [x] When scheduling a meeting
- [ ] When metaphorically defeating an opponent
> **Explanation:** Scheduling a meeting would not involve the verb 'ream.' It is used for drilling, juicing, and metaphorical situations of achieving victory.
### Historically, how has the term 'ream' of paper varied in different regions?
- [ ] 250 sheets in some regions
- [ ] 350 sheets in some regions
- [x] 480-516 sheets historically in some regions
- [ ] Always 500 sheets universally
> **Explanation:** Historically, a ream has varied slightly, sometimes being between 480 and 516 sheets in different regions before becoming more standardized.
### In which part of daily business activity is 'ream' most relevant?
- [ ] Financial audits
- [ ] Marketing strategies
- [x] Office supplies and inventory
- [ ] Employee training
> **Explanation:** 'Ream' is most relevant in the context of office supplies and inventory, referring to paper usage.
### If a store sells paper in bundles, how many reams might each bundle include?
- [ ] 1 ream per bundle
- [ ] 2.5 reams per bundle
- [x] Multiple reams per bundle
- [ ] Only 10 sheets per bundle
> **Explanation:** Bundles often contain multiple reams, making them larger than the standard unit of 500 sheets.
### Why might understanding the term 'ream' be essential for office administrators?
- [x] To manage paper supply effectively
- [ ] To improve print quality
- [ ] To control paper color variety
- [ ] To ensure printer compatibility
> **Explanation:** Understanding the term 'ream' helps office administrators manage paper supplies effectively, ensuring the office runs smoothly.
Thank you for deepening your understanding of the term ‘ream’ and exploring its implications through our comprehensive quiz questions. Continue to sharpen your knowledge for better business acumen!
