Words / B2

k-uh-RUPSHUN/kəˈrʌpʃn/

Corruption is dishonest or illegal behaviour by people in power, especially bribes: fight corruption, a corruption scandal. Dishonesty is everyday; bribery is one form. Corrupt is the adjective/verb. In speech, taking bribes / abuse of power is enough. The word is news and official English. Do not use corruption for ordinary cheating in a card game unless power or office is involved, and do not confuse it with eruption (a volcano).

Meaning

Dishonest or illegal behaviour by people in power, especially involving bribes.

Examples

• “The inquiry found widespread corruption in the department.”
• “The inquiry found corruption in procurement, not in the classroom marking.”
• “Anti-corruption rules banned gifts above a token value.”

Good to know

Dishonesty in power (often bribes). Adjective/verb: corrupt. Everyday: taking bribes / abuse of power. Contrast: ordinary cheating without office.

Near in meaning

bribery

New