Middleman: meaning, definitions and examples
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middleman
[ ˈmɪdlˌman ]
business
A person who acts as an intermediary or agent in transactions between buyers and sellers, typically taking a commission.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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middleman |
Use 'middleman' when referring to a person or entity that facilitates transactions between two parties, typically in a general sense. This term is often used in contexts like supply chains or marketplace transactions. It may have a slight negative connotation, implying an unnecessary or costly extra step.
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intermediary |
Use 'intermediary' in situations where the third party acts as a mediator between two parties, often in negotiations, conflict resolution, or complex transactions. This term has a neutral and sometimes formal tone.
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broker |
Use 'broker' for a person or firm that arranges transactions between a buyer and a seller, especially in financial, real estate, or insurance sectors. The term implies a more specialized and professional role compared to 'middleman'.
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agent |
Use 'agent' to describe a person who acts on behalf of another person or group, often in specific roles such as real estate, literary, or talent. It generally has a formal or professional connotation.
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Examples of usage
- He works as a middleman connecting suppliers with retailers.
- The middleman helps negotiate deals between the two parties.
informal
A person who intervenes in a dispute to bring about a settlement; a mediator.
Synonyms
arbitrator, mediator, negotiator.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
middleman |
Used when referring to someone who acts as an intermediary in business transactions or deals, usually to facilitate the exchange of goods or services.
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mediator |
Ideal for situations where a neutral third party helps facilitate communication and negotiation between disputing parties to reach a mutual agreement.
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arbitrator |
Best used in legal or formal disputes where a neutral third party makes decisions to resolve conflicts.
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negotiator |
Used when referring to someone skilled in negotiating terms, deals, or agreements between parties, often in business or diplomatic settings.
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Examples of usage
- They hired a middleman to help resolve the conflict.
- The middleman successfully mediated the disagreement.
Translations
Translations of the word "middleman" in other languages:
🇵🇹 intermediário
🇮🇳 मध्यस्थ
🇩🇪 Vermittler
🇮🇩 perantara
🇺🇦 посередник
🇵🇱 pośrednik
🇯🇵 仲介者
🇫🇷 intermédiaire
🇪🇸 intermediario
🇹🇷 aracı
🇰🇷 중개인
🇸🇦 وسيط
🇨🇿 prostředník
🇸🇰 prostredník
🇨🇳 中间人
🇸🇮 posrednik
🇮🇸 milliliður
🇰🇿 делдал
🇬🇪 შუამავალი
🇦🇿 vasitəçi
🇲🇽 intermediario
Etymology
The term 'middleman' dates back to the early 19th century when it was used to describe a person who acted as an intermediary in business transactions. The role of a middleman has evolved over time, and today it refers to someone who facilitates deals between parties. The concept of a middleman has both positive and negative connotations, as they can help streamline transactions but also add an extra layer of cost. Overall, the middleman plays a crucial role in various industries by connecting buyers and sellers.
See also: middleweight, middling.