C1noun2K

Marketplace

UK /["/ˈmɑːkɪtpleɪs/"]/US /["/ˈmɑːrkɪtpleɪs/"]/

Definition

the activity of competing with other companies to buy and sell goods, services, etc.

In simple words: A place where people buy and sell things.

Examples

  • Companies must be able to survive in the marketplace.
  • the education marketplace
  • They have successfully adapted to the demands of the global marketplace.

Usage notes

Use 'marketplace' when referring to a physical or online space for trade. It's appropriate in business contexts but can also be used in everyday conversation.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a market with many stalls — that's a marketplace!

Collocations

  • competitive
  • crowded
  • commercial
  • enter
  • crowd
  • flood
  • in a/​the marketplace

Synonyms

  • bazaar
  • trading post
  • exchange
  • flea market
  • emporium

Antonyms

  • monopoly
  • solitude

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'market' which is broader and can refer to any buying-selling context.
  • Incorrectly use as a verb; 'marketplace' is always a noun.