# telemarketing

/ˌtɛɫəˈmɑɹkətɪŋ/ (US) · /tˈɛlɪmˌɑːkɪtɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/telemarketing
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

the activity of calling people on the phone to try and sell them products or services. You might find these calls annoying if they happen during dinner.

For teachers: the marketing of goods or services by means of telephone calls, typically unsolicited, to potential customers. Often carries a negative connotation due to its intrusive nature.

## Examples

- He got a job in telemarketing to pay for college.
- Many people use call-blocking apps to avoid the constant stream of telemarketing calls they receive every day.
- While some firms still rely on telemarketing for lead generation, increasingly strict privacy regulations have forced a shift toward digital and permission-based advertising strategies.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a modifier before another noun, such as 'telemarketing firm' or 'telemarketing campaign'.

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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.