Question

Does the term "mafia" have any more meanings? 🤔

2023-06-26

This is what goPenpal answered

Yes, aside from its typical use, the term "mafia" can also imply a group or structure wielding power or influence in particular areas. Originally, "mafia" was a term used to refer to a criminal organization originating from Sicily, Italy. But over time, its usage has broadened and it's not uncommon to hear it used in contexts outside of traditional organized crime.

For instance, in the corporate world, you might hear someone refer to a "marketing mafia" to describe a group of marketers who hold significant sway or influence. Similarly, the term can be used metaphorically to describe any group of like-minded people who exercise a sort of "underground" control in a specific field.

So, while the connotations tend to be pejorative due to its historical and cinematic associations with crime and corruption, in a broader sense, a "mafia" could simply mean a power structure, a close-knit community of people who dominate a particular area.

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