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mafia

Meaning in simple English, pronunciation and examples

Pronunciation: US /ˈmɑfiə/ · UK /ˈmæfiə/

mafia means: A secret organization with powerful leaders that makes money through organized crime.

noun

CRIME ORGANIZATIONB2

A secret organization with powerful leaders that makes money through organized crime.

  • The mafia controlled the gambling clubs.
  • Police arrested three members of the local mafia.
  • The shopkeeper refused to pay money to the mafia boss.

Similar words: crime syndicate, criminal organization

Common phrases: mafia boss, mafia member, mafia family, local mafia

CLOSE ASSOCIATESC1

A close group of powerful people who support each other and protect their shared interests.

  • His political mafia filled every important post.
  • A small media mafia decided which writers received attention.
  • The mayor relied on a mafia of old friends.

Similar words: clique, inner circle

Common phrases: political mafia, media mafia, local mafia

THREATENING CONTROLC2

A group that uses threats or violence to control a particular area of activity.

  • A transport mafia threatened drivers who refused to join.
  • The land mafia forced families to sell their farms.
  • Residents challenged the local mafia despite repeated threats.

Similar words: racket, criminal gang

Common phrases: local mafia, transport mafia, land mafia

Questions about mafia

What does mafia mean?

A secret organization with powerful leaders that makes money through organized crime.

What is mafia in other languages?

Türkçe: mafya · Español: mafia · Français: mafia · Deutsch: Mafia · Italiano: mafia · 日本語: マフィア

How do you pronounce mafia?

In American English /ˈmɑfiə/; in British English /ˈmæfiə/.

How do you use mafia in a sentence?

The mafia controlled the gambling clubs. Police arrested three members of the local mafia.

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mafia in other languages

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