Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈbraɪbəri/

Definitions

1. The act or practice of offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value to influence the actions of someone in a position of power.
2. Illegal or unethical payment made to someone, typically to influence their actions or decisions.

Usage Examples

• "The politician was arrested for his involvement in bribery schemes."
• "Many public servants are being investigated for accepting bribes in exchange for favors."

Etymology

The term "bribery" originated in the Middle Ages from the word "bribe," which referred to a piece of food or a portion given in exchange for something. By the 16th century, it evolved to signify a form of inducement to corrupt someone’s behavior.

Synonyms

• Corruption
• Kickback
• Inducement
• Payoff
• Sweepstake

Antonyms

• Integrity
• Honesty
• Fairness
• Transparency

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

Pronunciations of "bribery" may slightly vary depending on regional accents, especially the emphasis on the first or second syllable. In American English, it’s often pronounced with emphasis on the first syllable, while in British English, the second syllable may carry more emphasis.

Historical Usage

The practice of bribery has been documented as far back as ancient civilizations, where leaders and officials were bribed to secure favorable decisions. Over time, various laws have been enacted to curb bribery, particularly as societies and economies became more complex and institutions were built to maintain fairness and transparency.

Cultural Nuances

In some cultures, bribery is considered a normal part of doing business, particularly in cases where bureaucracy is heavy or when it is viewed as a way of greasing the wheels of government or commerce. However, it is increasingly viewed as unethical or illegal globally, and anti-bribery laws have become more stringent in many countries.

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