Word
trafficking
Phoneticstraf·fick·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈtɹæfɪkɪŋ/
UK/tɹˈæfɪkɪŋ/
Definitions
01illegal trade
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Law Formal
n. the illegal buying and selling of goods, such as drugs or weapons.
n. the illicit trade or exchange of prohibited commodities, typically involving organized criminal networks.
“The government is trying to stop the trafficking of illegal weapons across the border.”
“International agencies have intensified their efforts to disrupt the maritime routes used for the trafficking of narcotics and counterfeit goods.”
Usage
Often used with a modifying noun like 'drug' or 'arms'.
Synonyms
02exploitation of people
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Law Formal
n. the crime of moving or tricking people so they can be used for forced work.
n. the recruitment, transportation, or receipt of persons by means of threat or deception for the purpose of exploitation.
“Charities work hard to help victims of human trafficking find safety.”
“The new legislation aims to provide better protection for survivors of human trafficking while increasing the penalties for those who profit from forced labor.”
Usage
Commonly appears in the phrase 'human trafficking'.
Synonyms
03biological movement
C2 · Proficiency Uncountable noun Science Technical
n. the way proteins or other small things move through a living body.
n. the regulated movement of proteins, enzymes, or vesicles through specific pathways within a cell or tissue.
“Scientists are studying the trafficking of proteins within the brain.”
“Defects in the endosomal trafficking of certain enzymes have been linked to the development of neurodegenerative disorders.”
Usage
Usually refers to intracellular or molecular movement.
Real-World Examples
“Recognising the shared responsibility of the international community, they called for effective measures to prevent human trafficking and ensure human rights-based responses, from protection services to providing access to employment, education and healthcare.” “For example, if you stole something of little value or were caught smoking marijuana, it’s very different from something like repeated offences for violence or drug trafficking.” Related words
- 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.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL 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: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/trafficking