misconduct
miss-KON-dukt
/ˌmɪsˈkɒndʌkt/
Unacceptable or improper behavior, especially by a professional person.
A broad term that can range from minor policy violations to serious criminal acts like fraud.
The story behind the word. Combines the prefix 'mis-' (wrongly) with 'conduct' (from 'conducere', to lead together). It literally means 'bad leading' or behaving wrongly.
Word relationships
- malpractice: Malpractice is specifically misconduct by a professional (like a doctor or lawyer) in their field of expertise.
- wrongdoing: Wrongdoing is a more general, less formal term for doing something bad.
- probity: Probity is the quality of having strong moral principles and honesty.
Commonly confused with
- mistake: A mistake is an error in judgment or fact; misconduct is a violation of rules or ethics.
Word family
- conduct (verb): The manner in which a person behaves.
Collocations
- gross misconduct
- professional misconduct
- sexual misconduct
Example sentences
- "The employee was terminated immediately following an investigation into allegations of professional misconduct." HR Policy
Memory hook
Misconduct is 'Missed' 'Conduct'—you missed the way you were supposed to behave. Bad behavior.
When not to use
Avoid using for accidental mistakes; misconduct implies a level of intent or gross negligence.
Fun facts
- In many jurisdictions, 'gross misconduct' is the only legal ground for firing an employee without notice or severance pay.
Related words
Explore more words
impropriety, malfeasance, malpractice, fraud, conduct, transgress
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