Syndicate: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used in both legal and illegal contexts to describe a group of people or organizations that work together for a common purpose. In the context of crime, it refers to a structured group involved in illegal activities.

• The police have been investigating an international drug syndicate for months.
• A publishing syndicate bought the rights to his book.

This formal term describes any organized group engaged in criminal activities. It is often used in legal, academic, and policy-making contexts.

• The criminal organization was dismantled after a lengthy investigation.
• He was accused of being the leader of a criminal organization.

This term specifically refers to a group of people who work together to commit crimes. It is generally used in the context of an organized group involved in illegal activities such as theft, drug trafficking, or human smuggling.

• The authorities busted a crime ring that was smuggling exotic animals.
• She was involved in a crime ring that operated across several states.

This word refers specifically to organized crime groups that originated in Italy and have since spread to other parts of the world. It is often associated with a hierarchical structure and a code of conduct. Its use can carry a strong, sometimes negative connotation.

• The local businesses were forced to pay protection money to the mafia.
• He wrote a book detailing the history of the Sicilian mafia.

A syndicate is commonly used to refer to a group of individuals or organizations that come together to pursue a common interest or project, often in a business or financial context. It sometimes carries a negative connotation when referring to illegal activities.

• The property was purchased by a syndicate of investors.
• The newspaper was part of a larger media syndicate.

A consortium is a formal association of several organizations or businesses that come together to achieve a specific goal, often for large-scale projects or research. It has a neutral to positive connotation.

• The consortium of companies secured the government contract to build the bridge.
• A consortium of universities launched a new scientific study.

A partnership involves two or more entities working together towards a common goal, with shared responsibilities and benefits. It is used in business and personal relationships with a positive connotation.

• The two tech firms announced a strategic partnership.
• Their successful business partnership lasted over a decade.

Collaboration refers to the act of working together towards a common goal, typically in a positive and cooperative manner. It is often used in artistic, academic, or professional settings.

• The project was a collaboration between local artists and the university.
• Their collaboration resulted in a groundbreaking research paper.