Corruption

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

UK: /kəˈrʌpʃən/ | US: /kəˈrʌpʃən/

Definitions

1. (Noun) The act or process of dishonestly changing or influencing something, especially for personal gain.

2. (Noun) The state of being morally or ethically flawed, particularly in relation to power, authority, or money.

3. (Noun) The degradation or decay of something, such as materials or institutions, through harmful influences.

Usage Examples

1. The corruption in the government led to widespread public distrust.

2. The company was accused of corruption in its financial dealings.

3. Corruption in the local police force undermines the trust of the community.

Etymology

The word "corruption" originates from the Latin "corruptio," meaning "to break or destroy," from "corruptus," which means "spoiled, ruined, or bribed." The term evolved in the Middle Ages to refer to moral decay and later expanded to include political and corporate corruption.

Synonyms

Dishonesty, bribery, exploitation, fraud, misconduct, malfeasance, degeneration, depravity, decay, perversion

Antonyms

Integrity, honesty, virtue, rectitude, decency, righteousness, purity, ethics

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "corruption" is generally consistent across English-speaking regions, though in some areas, the stress may shift slightly. In British English, the stress is often placed on the second syllable, while in American English, it may be more evenly distributed.

Historical Usage

Corruption has been a prominent issue throughout history, particularly in political, religious, and corporate systems. The term "corruption" was first used in the 14th century, primarily referring to the act of destroying or perverting something, including the moral decay of individuals or institutions. Over time, it became increasingly associated with bribery and unethical behavior in governance and business.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of corruption varies across cultures. In many Western societies, corruption is often viewed as a political or corporate crime, with significant legal consequences. In some other cultures, however, corruption may be seen as an accepted part of doing business, particularly when systemic issues or weak regulatory frameworks are in place. The perception of corruption is deeply tied to social, political, and historical factors within a given society.

More Information

Corruption remains a global challenge with significant social, economic, and political implications. It undermines trust in institutions, exacerbates inequality, and hampers development. Efforts to combat corruption include promoting transparency, improving accountability, strengthening the rule of law, and encouraging civic engagement. International organizations and governments continue to work together to combat corruption through conventions, anti-corruption legislation, and enforcement measures.