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Cartel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cartel

[kɑːˈtɛl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

illegal trade

A cartel is a group of businesses or countries that agree to fix prices, limit competition, or control the production and distribution of a particular product or service.

Synonyms

combine, syndicate, trust.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cartel

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.
syndicate

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.
combine

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.
trust

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.

Examples of usage

  • The drug cartel was responsible for smuggling large quantities of narcotics into the country.
  • The oil cartel decided to decrease production in order to drive up prices.
Context #2 | Noun

artistic collaboration

In the art world, a cartel refers to a group of artists or art dealers who work together to promote each other's work and increase their influence in the industry.

Synonyms

alliance, coalition, collaboration.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cartel

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.
collaboration

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.
alliance

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.
coalition

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.

Examples of usage

  • The painters formed a cartel to exhibit their works together at the gallery.
  • The music cartel organized a series of concerts to showcase their talents.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • One of the earliest known cartels was the 'Sugar Trust' in the United States in the late 1800s, which tightly controlled sugar prices.
  • OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries), formed in 1960, is one of the most recognized cartels in the world, managing oil production and prices.

Economics

  • Cartels can lead to higher prices for consumers by reducing competition, which is often seen as harmful in free market economies.
  • Economists argue that cartels can limit innovation by stabilizing prices and thus reducing the incentive for companies to improve their products.

Social Impact

  • Cartels often face legal challenges and government crackdowns because they can manipulate the market to benefit a few at the expense of many.
  • In some regions, cartels can contribute to corruption, as companies may bribe officials to maintain their agreements.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and television shows, cartels are often depicted in crime dramas, highlighting their secretive and often violent nature.
  • The popular series 'Breaking Bad' and the movie 'Scarface' feature fictional representations of drug cartels, illustrating their impact on society.

Origin of 'cartel'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'cartel' comes from the Italian word 'cartello', meaning a little card or notice, which was used in the 19th century to describe agreements between businesses.
  • Initially, the word referred to a coalition in warfare, but by the early 1900s, it was associated more with economic collaborations.

The term 'cartel' originated in the late 19th century from the Italian word 'cartello', which means 'placard' or 'poster'. It was initially used to refer to a written agreement or document. Over time, the term evolved to describe agreements among businesses or countries to control prices or production. The concept of cartels has been associated with illegal activities such as drug trafficking, but it also has a legitimate use in industries like art and oil.

See also: cart, cartology, carton, cartoon, cartwheel.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,429, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.