# CMA

CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cma
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

Stands for Competition and Markets Authority. A government group in the UK that makes sure businesses treat customers fairly and do not stop other companies from competing.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Competition and Markets Authority. The non-ministerial government department in the United Kingdom responsible for strengthening business competition and preventing anti-competitive activities.

## Examples

- The CMA blocked the merger to protect consumers.
- After a lengthy investigation, the CMA ruled that the supermarket's pricing strategy was unfair to local shoppers.
- The CMA has the power to impose significant fines on corporations that engage in price-fixing or other behaviors that stifle healthy market competition.

## Usage notes

- Usually functions as a proper noun; typically preceded by 'the' when referring to the specific UK authority.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.
