歇业 (xiē yè) is a formal verb meaning 'to suspend business operations' — typically used when a shop, restaurant, company, or other commercial entity temporarily or permanently closes. The character 歇 (xiē) means 'to rest' or 'to stop temporarily', while 业 (yè) means 'business', 'occupation', or 'enterprise'. Together, they literally convey 'resting the business', implying a cessation of regular commercial activity. It’s more formal and written than colloquial alternatives like 关门 (guān mén, 'to close the door') and is commonly found in official notices, news reports, or legal documents.

This term is often used to describe planned closures — such as seasonal shutdowns, renovations, or permanent closures due to financial hardship. Unlike 破产 (pò chǎn, 'bankruptcy'), 歇业 does not necessarily imply insolvency; it can be voluntary and temporary. It’s also distinct from 停业 (tíng yè), which is broader and may refer to regulatory suspensions. Native speakers use 歇业 most frequently with nouns denoting businesses: 店铺、公司、餐馆、工厂.