English Reference

Word

matchmaking

Phoneticsmatch·mak·ing, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈmætʃˌmeɪkɪŋ/

UK/mˈætʃmeɪkɪŋ/

Uncountable noun

Definition

n. the activity of bringing two people or groups together to start a relationship or a deal.

n. the process of arranging introductions between people, typically for the purpose of marriage or a romantic relationship, or in a business context to facilitate partnerships.

Examples

“She is very good at matchmaking for her single friends.”

“The conference included a matchmaking session where small startups could pitch their ideas to major venture capital firms.”

“While traditional matchmaking relied on the intuition of community elders, modern digital platforms utilize complex algorithms to pair individuals based on psychological compatibility and shared interests.”

Examples

simple

“She is very good at matchmaking for her single friends.”

contextual

“The conference included a matchmaking session where small startups could pitch their ideas to major venture capital firms.”

complex

“While traditional matchmaking relied on the intuition of community elders, modern digital platforms utilize complex algorithms to pair individuals based on psychological compatibility and shared interests.”

Usage

Often functions as a gerund noun; frequently paired with 'business' or 'corporate' in professional contexts.

Real-World Examples

“Singapore has rolled out a matchmaking service for its government workers, an initiative that comes as the country wrestles with a record-low fertility rate.”
BBC News 30 Sept 2026
“Mary Timby flew to Ireland on a whim last year and met her boyfriend at a matchmaking festival.”
BBC News 18 Sept 2026

Word family

Domain

Business

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

QR code

englishreference.com/q/matchmaking

English Reference