Unmarketable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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unmarketable
[ʌnˈmɑːrkɪtəbl ]
Definition
business terminology
Unmarketable refers to a product or service that is unable to be sold or is not in demand in the market. This can occur for various reasons such as poor quality, outdated features, or lack of consumer interest. In business, understanding what is considered unmarketable can help companies pivot their strategies and improve their offerings.
Synonyms
unacceptable, unsellable, unwanted.
Examples of usage
- The technology was deemed unmarketable due to its outdated design.
- Investors shy away from unmarketable items that lack consumer appeal.
- The new book was considered unmarketable by the publisher.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Business
- In business contexts, products can be deemed unmarketable if they don't meet consumer needs or preferences.
- Unmarketable items might include obsolete technology or products with significant design flaws.
- Marketers often analyze trends to ensure products are marketable, and changes in consumer behavior can render previously marketable products unmarketable.
Psychology
- Perception plays a key role; what one person finds unmarketable, another might love, indicating subjective value.
- The 'endowment effect' suggests people often see their possessions as more valuable than they truly are, affecting marketability.
- Social proof can diminish unmarketability; if others show interest, a product may suddenly become desirable.
Cultural Impact
- Certain styles or trends are considered unmarketable in one culture while thriving in another, showcasing cultural relativity.
- Art pieces often face unmarketability if they diverge too much from what is currently popular or acceptable.
Legal Considerations
- In real estate, properties can be termed unmarketable if they have legal issues that prevent sale.
- Intellectual property can also be unmarketable due to infringement problems or unclear rights.
Origin of 'unmarketable'
Main points about word origin
- The word combines 'un-' meaning 'not' with 'marketable', indicating lack of appeal in the marketplace.
- The term 'marketable' originates from the Middle English 'market', which means 'a place for buying and selling'.
The term 'unmarketable' is a compound of 'un-', a prefix meaning 'not', and 'marketable', which comes from 'market', referring to a place where goods are sold, and 'able', indicating capability. The concept of marketability dates back to the development of trade, where the ability to sell products was crucial for economic growth. As markets evolved, so did the understanding of what makes a product sellable. Businesses began assessing their goods and services against consumer demand and market conditions, leading to the formalization of terms like 'marketable' and 'unmarketable'. This distinction became critical in business strategies, especially during economic shifts where certain products would fail to attract buyers.