Of the 27.8 million businesses in this country at the end of 2008, the majority _____.

The statement that the majority of the 27.8 million businesses in the country at the end of 2008 are small businesses is accurate due to the significant role small businesses play in the economy. Small businesses account for a large percentage of all businesses and are crucial to job creation, innovation, and economic growth. These enterprises often have fewer than 500 employees and are classified as small based on various criteria set by the Small Business Administration (SBA).

The other possible options do not reflect the typical landscape of businesses in the U.S. at that time. Most corporations do not constitute the majority of businesses as they are fewer in number compared to small businesses. The claim regarding businesses not paying taxes because of the recession does not apply to the full majority of businesses, as taxation status varies widely among businesses, and many small businesses still generated income. Lastly, while some businesses may have considered moving off-shore to reduce costs or taxes, this is not a trend applicable to the majority of the business landscape during that period.

Thus, identifying that the majority are small businesses accurately reflects the composition and significance of the business environment in the U.S. at the end of 2008.