1. Money received: This is the most common meaning. It refers to the money that is earned from a sale, investment, or other activity.
Example: "The proceeds from the charity auction will be donated to the local hospital."
2. To move forward: This meaning is less common and usually refers to a process or activity that is continuing.
Example: "The construction project is proceeding smoothly."
3. (Legal term): In legal contexts, "proceeds" can refer to the legal outcome of a case.
Example: "The judge will decide the proceeds of the lawsuit."
To figure out the meaning of "proceeds" in a particular sentence, consider the context and the other words in the sentence.
For example:
* "The company's proceeds were higher than expected." (Meaning: money received)
* "The negotiations are proceeding slowly." (Meaning: moving forward)
* "The proceeds of the trial were favorable to the defendant." (Meaning: legal outcome)