misappropriation
mis-uh-proh-pree-AY-shuhn
/ˌmɪs.əˌprəʊ.priˈeɪ.ʃən/
The intentional, illegal use of the property or funds of another person for one's own use or other unauthorized purpose.
A broad term that includes embezzlement but also covers using funds for something they weren't intended for, even if the user doesn't keep the money.
The story behind the word. Combines the prefix 'mis-' (wrong) with 'appropriate', which comes from the Latin 'proprius' (one's own). It literally means 'making something your own in the wrong way'.
Word relationships
- embezzlement: Embezzlement is a specific type of misappropriation where the person was in a position of trust.
- allocation: The action or process of distributing something for a specific, legal purpose.
Commonly confused with
- theft: Theft is taking something that isn't yours; misappropriation is using something you were allowed to handle for the wrong reason.
Word family
- misappropriate (verb): To use something for the wrong purpose.
Collocations
- misappropriation of funds
- willful misappropriation
- charged with misappropriation
Example sentences
- "The misappropriation of funds intended for charity to pay for the CEO's personal travel was a clear violation of the organization's bylaws." A legal document regarding non-profits.
- "The misappropriation of public funds for personal use remains a primary charge in the ongoing investigation into the former administration." A historical legal case.
Memory hook
Mis-Appropriation: You are 'missing' the 'appropriate' use of the money. Missing the appropriate use.
When not to use
Do not use for simple theft where the person never had legal access to the funds.
Fun facts
- Misappropriation is a common charge in intellectual property law, such as the 'misappropriation of trade secrets'.
Related words
Explore more words
appropriate, embezzlement, appropriation, usurp, theft, misconduct
Also appears in
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