mercadotecnia
Lemma Details
Translation: marketing; market research; merchandising
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: Derived from 'mercado' (market) + 'tecnia' (technique), a compound word created in Spanish to replace the English loanword 'marketing'. The term was formed in the mid-20th century as part of efforts to create Spanish equivalents for foreign technical terms. 'Mercado' comes from Latin 'mercatus' (market, trade), while 'tecnia' derives from Greek 'techne' (art, skill, craft).
Commonality: 60%
Guessability: 30%
Register: formal
Example Usage
Estudió mercadotecnia en la universidad.
She studied marketing at the university.
El departamento de mercadotecnia desarrolló una nueva campaña publicitaria.
The marketing department developed a new advertising campaign.
La mercadotecnia digital es esencial para las empresas modernas.
Digital marketing is essential for modern businesses.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'mercado' (market) + 'tecnia' (technique) = techniques for the market
- Remember it as 'market technology' - the science of marketing
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
While 'mercadotecnia' is the official Spanish term for marketing, many Spanish speakers, especially in business contexts, also use the English loanword 'marketing'. 'Mercadotecnia' is more commonly used in academic settings and in Mexico, while other Spanish-speaking countries may prefer 'mercadeo' or simply 'marketing'.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While both refer to marketing, 'mercadeo' is more commonly used in Latin American countries, particularly Colombia, Venezuela, and parts of Central America, whereas 'mercadotecnia' is more prevalent in Mexico and academic contexts.
Confused word:
En Colombia, el mercadeo digital ha transformado el comercio.
In Colombia, digital marketing has transformed commerce.
Notes: Both terms are correct, but usage varies by region and context. In many business environments, the English word 'marketing' is also commonly used.
Mnemonic: 'Mercadotecnia' has 'tecnia' (technique/technology) suggesting a more technical or academic approach, while 'mercadeo' is shorter and more direct.
Explanation: 'Mercadotecnia' refers to the overall discipline and strategies of marketing, while 'comercialización' focuses more specifically on the process of bringing products to market and making them commercially viable.
Confused word:
La comercialización del producto comenzará el próximo mes.
The commercialization of the product will begin next month.
Notes: While there is overlap between these terms, 'mercadotecnia' is broader and encompasses the theory and practice of marketing, while 'comercialización' is more focused on implementation.
Mnemonic: Think of 'mercadotecnia' as the broader science and 'comercialización' as the specific action of commercializing.