bribery
BRY-ber-ee
/ˈbraɪbəri/
The offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting of something of value to influence the action of an official or other person in charge of a public or legal duty.
Focuses on the exchange of gifts or money specifically intended to corrupt decision-making.
The story behind the word. In 14th-century Anglo-French, 'bribe' originally referred to scraps of bread handed out to beggars. Over time, the association shifted from charity given to the destitute to illicit scraps or payments given to greedy officials to win their favor.
Word relationships
- payoff: Payoff is informal slang for a bribe or secret payment.
- subornation: Subornation refers specifically to bribing or persuading someone to commit perjury or perform an illegal act.
- honesty: Honesty implies refusal to participate in illegal or corrupt financial exchanges.
- fairness: Fairness denotes decisions made on merit without illicit financial influence.
Commonly confused with
- extortion: Bribery involves offering money to persuade someone, whereas extortion involves demanding money through threats.
Word family
- bribe (verb): To influence someone dishonestly by giving gifts or money.
- bribe (noun): The money or favor offered to influence someone.
Collocations
- accept bribery
- allegations of bribery
- anti-bribery laws
- commercial bribery
Idioms & expressions
- grease someone's palm
Example sentences
- "The executive was convicted of bribery after wiretaps exposed payments made to city inspectors." Criminal Trial
- "Strict anti-bribery statutes prohibit foreign companies from offering cash incentives to customs officials." International Law
Memory hook
Bribe = offering bread/crumbs to corrupt someone. Buying favor with illegal pay.
When not to use
Do not use for legitimate payments, commissions, or tipping for good service.
Fun facts
- The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act makes it illegal for US companies to bribe officials anywhere in the world.
Related words
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