Cartel: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe a group of independent businesses or organizations that collaborate to control prices and limit competition, often in an illegal or unethical manner.

• The drug cartel controls most of the narcotics trade in the region.
• Several major oil companies formed a cartel to fix prices and limit production.

Usually refers to a group of individuals or organizations combined to promote a common interest, which can be both legal (e.g., media syndicates) and illegal (e.g., criminal syndicates).

• The news was distributed by a syndicate of local newspapers.
• The police are cracking down on the criminal syndicate responsible for the recent robberies.

Used to describe a merger or joining of companies or organizations, usually to increase efficiency and market share, often in a different context from 'cartel'.

• Several tech startups decided to combine their resources to create a new innovative platform.
• The two agricultural companies formed a combine to improve their distribution networks.

Refers to a large business with significant market power, often formed by legal means, where stockholders entrust their shares to a central board of trustees to control activities and eliminate competition.

• The government is looking to break up the tech trust that has been accused of monopolistic practices.
• A century ago, several regional railways were merged into a powerful trust.

Used to describe a group of independent businesses or organizations that join together to control prices and limit competition. Often has a negative connotation as it suggests illegal or unethical collaboration.

• The oil companies formed a cartel to manipulate fuel prices.
• The government cracked down on the drug cartel operating in the region.

Utilized to talk about the action of working with someone to produce or create something. Used broadly across various fields like academics, business, and the arts.

• The scientists' collaboration led to groundbreaking research.
• The film was a result of collaboration between an American director and a British screenwriter.

Refers to a formal agreement or pact between two or more parties, often countries, to work together for common interests. Generally used in political, military, or strategic contexts.

• NATO is a military alliance between North American and European countries.
• The business alliance aimed to improve trade relations between the two nations.

Describes a temporary alliance of distinct parties, persons, or states for joint action, often in a political context. Used to emphasize cooperation for a specific purpose.

• The environmental groups formed a coalition to lobby against deforestation.
• Several political parties formed a coalition government after the election.