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monopolize

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /məˈnɒpəlaɪz/

KK: /məˈnɑːpəˌlaɪz/

transitive verb
Definition

To take control of something completely, preventing others from having a share or participating.


Example

The company tried to monopolize the market by buying out all its competitors.


Tense Forms

Past: monopolized

Past Participle: monopolized


Conversation
Sloth A
I noticed that during the meeting, Jake always seems to monopolize the discussion.
Sloth B
Yeah, it’s frustrating when others don’t get a chance to speak.
Sloth A
I wish he would let others share their ideas instead of dominating everything.
Sloth B
Totally! Everyone has something valuable to contribute.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
control
dominate
sway
Antonyms
share
distribute
release
Root Explanation

Monopolize → It is formed from "mono-" (meaning single or one) and "polein" (meaning to sell). The word describes the act of selling something exclusively by one entity, thus controlling it entirely.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mono-' meaning 'one' and 'polein' meaning 'to sell' — this helps you remember that monopolize means to control the sale of something by one.

Visually Confused Words
unmonopolize
unmonopolized
premonopolize
mongolize
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