conflict of interest
KON-flikt uv IN-truhst
/ˈkɒnflɪkt əv ˈɪntrəst/
A situation in which a person is in a position to derive personal benefit from actions or decisions made in their official capacity.
Even the appearance of a conflict can be as damaging as an actual conflict in professional settings.
The story behind the word. From 'con-' (together) and 'fligere' (to strike). It describes two opposing duties or desires smashing into each other.
Word relationships
- impartiality: Impartiality is the state of being unbiased and having no personal stake in the outcome.
Commonly confused with
- bias: Bias is a mental inclination; a conflict of interest is a structural situation where personal gain is possible.
Collocations
- potential conflict of interest
- disclose a conflict of interest
- perceived conflict of interest
Idioms & expressions
- serving two masters
Example sentences
- "The reporter had a conflict of interest because she was married to the CEO of the company she was investigating." Journalism
Memory hook
A conflict of interest is when your 'Personal' interest 'Conflicts' with your 'Professional' duty. Two hats, one head.
When not to use
Do not use for simple disagreements between friends; it requires a professional or official duty.
Fun facts
- In many companies, employees must sign a 'Conflict of Interest' disclosure every single year.
Related words
Explore more words
impartiality, neutral, neutrality, impartial, nepotism, transparency
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