Words / C1

m-uh-NOP-uh-lee/məˈnɒpəli/

A monopoly is exclusive control of a supply or market: a monopoly on bookings, break up a monopoly. Exclusive is the adjective cousin; a cartel is several firms acting as one. Monopoly the board game is a lookalike. Do not call a single-supplier contract a convenience if it is a silent monopoly.

Meaning

Exclusive control of a market, supply, or service, with no real competition.

Examples

• “A monopoly on invigilation bookings is a risk, not a convenience.”
• “Control is everyday and wider. A sole supplier may be a monopoly in practice. Competition is the policy opposite. A brand name on a game is not the C1 noun. One inbox for all sittings needs an audit, not a shrug.”

Good to know

Sole control; no real competitors. Wider: control. Contrast: competition. A game title is a lookalike. Convenience can hide a monopoly.

Near in meaning

exclusive

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