middleman

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "middleman" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone who facilitates a transaction between two other parties and makes a profit in the process (e.g. a broker, a real estate agent, or a negotiator). For example, "The middleman charged an exorbitant fee for his services."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You don't have to go via a bank or other middleman; coin authentication is peer to peer.

The Guardian

Some on the cities' side want the department for communities and local government abolished, seeing it as an obstructive middleman, while their Charter for Local Freedom calls for an independent body to oversee the transfer of powers.

The Guardian

In the process every time that seafood changes hands (and it changes hands a lot) a portion of value is transferred from the fisherman to the middleman.

The Guardian

Culture secretary Sajid Javid has said that ticket touts are "classic entrepreneurs" and their detractors are the "chattering middle classes and champagne socialists, who have no interest in helping the common working man earn a decent living by acting as a middleman".

The Guardian - Opinion

Charles opened blithely: "It made me wonder if you had heard about an initiative which links hospital catering to local farmers' hubs, bringing benefit to patients (better quality food), the farmers (a reliable and local market) and the environment (lower food miles and less waste)?" He offers to put the secretary of state in touch with the "middleman" providing the quality provisions.

The Guardian

Ed Sheeran has already been voted the most powerful figure in UK black music by 1Xtra itself – and while you're allowed to dismiss that as insanity, there's no denying that he acts as a middleman to some, introducing his pop fanbase to grime stars such as Wiley.

The Guardian - Music

Mr Firtash, the reclusive son of a truck driver and an accountant, made his fortune as a middleman helping sell Russian and Central Asian gas to Ukraine.

The Economist

While a student at Southern University in Louisiana, he acted as a middleman in a drug deal.

The Economist

Mark Thatcher, her son, was alleged to have acted as a middleman and to have benefitted handsomely allegations which he denies.

The Economist

Having incurred smaller losses than rivals, it is still prepared to deploy risk capital where others fear to tread.Goldman claims that most of its profit came not from "proprietary" trading, or punting its own money, but by acting as a middleman, making markets for clients in everything from bonds and shares to currencies and commodities.

The Economist

Big brokerages use several internet service providers to ensure speedy trading.The exchanges may be booming now, but Mr Norman predicts that over-the-counter markets, which cut out the exchange as middleman, will flourish at their expense.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Be aware that "middleman" can sometimes carry a negative connotation, implying unnecessary cost or complexity. Consider alternatives like "intermediary" or "facilitator" if a more neutral tone is desired.

Common error

While "middleman" can sometimes suggest an unnecessary layer or cost, it's important to recognize that middlemen often provide valuable services like distribution, marketing, and risk management. Consider the specific context before assuming a negative connotation.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "middleman" is as a noun. It typically functions as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence, referring to an intermediary or agent between two parties. Ludwig AI confirms that the word is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "middleman" is a common noun used to describe an intermediary or agent facilitating transactions or communications between two or more parties. As indicated by Ludwig, the word is correct and widely used in English. Analysis of numerous examples reveals that while grammatically sound, it can sometimes carry negative connotations, implying unnecessary cost or complexity. Therefore, writers should consider using alternatives like "intermediary" or "facilitator" depending on the context. Its prevalence in news, business, and scientific publications underscores its broad applicability across diverse writing registers. Being mindful of its potential negative implications allows for more precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intermediary

Focuses on the role of someone who acts between parties.

intermediary agent

Emphasizes acting as an agent that mediates between parties.

mediator

Highlights the role of someone who resolves disputes.

negotiator

Highlights the act of discussing something to reach an agreement.

broker

Specifically refers to an agent in financial transactions.

agent

A general term for someone acting on behalf of another.

liaison

Focuses on establishing and maintaining communication.

facilitator

Highlights the role of someone who makes a process easier.

go-between

An informal term for someone who carries messages.

connection

Refers to the means or link to communicate or work with others.

FAQs

How can I use "middleman" in a sentence?

You can use "middleman" to describe an entity that facilitates transactions between two parties. For example, "The company decided to eliminate the "middleman" and sell directly to consumers."

What are some alternatives to "middleman"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "intermediary", "broker", or "agent".

What's the difference between "middleman" and "intermediary"?

While similar, "middleman" can sometimes imply a more transactional role, whereas "intermediary" is often used in a broader sense to describe someone who facilitates communication or understanding between parties.

Is it better to cut out the "middleman"?

Cutting out the "middleman" can sometimes reduce costs and increase efficiency. However, middlemen often provide valuable services. Assess these services before deciding whether to eliminate the intermediary.