Bribery is a term that is commonly used in our daily lives, but what does it really mean? Bribery is a crime that involves offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value in exchange for influence or action in return. It is considered as a corrupt practice that undermines the integrity of individuals and institutions. In this article, we will delve deeper into the definition and meaning of bribe.
Definitions
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines a bribe as “money or favor given or promised in order to influence the judgment or conduct of a person in a position of trust.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “an inducement or reward offered or given to a person in a position of trust or responsibility to influence that person’s views or conduct.”
Origin
The word “bribe” comes from the Middle English word “briben,” which means to rob or steal. It was later used to refer to the act of taking or receiving something of value in exchange for a favor or influence. The term has been used for centuries and is still prevalent today in different forms.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of bribe is consistent across different dictionaries. It is defined as the act of giving or receiving something of value in exchange for influence or action. The term is also associated with corruption and is considered as a criminal offense in many countries.
Associations
Bribery is often associated with corruption, dishonesty, and unethical behavior. It is seen as a way to gain an unfair advantage or to manipulate a situation for personal gain. Bribery can occur in various settings, such as politics, business, and sports.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of bribe include payoff, kickback, inducement, incentive, gratuity, and gift. These terms are often used interchangeably with bribe and have similar meanings.
Antonyms
The antonyms of bribe include honesty, integrity, fairness, and justice. These terms represent the opposite of bribery and are essential values in any society.
The same root words
The word “bribe” has several root words, including the Middle English word “briben” and the Old French word “briber.” These words have similar meanings and refer to the act of taking or receiving something of value in exchange for a favor or influence.
Example Sentences
- The businessman was caught offering a bribe to a government official in exchange for a contract.
- The athlete was accused of taking a bribe to lose the game intentionally.
- The politician was convicted of accepting a bribe from a lobbyist.
- The judge refused to accept the bribe offered by the defendant’s lawyer.
- The company was fined for giving a bribe to a foreign official to secure a contract.
In conclusion, bribery is a serious offense that can have severe consequences for both the giver and the receiver. It is important to uphold honesty and integrity in all aspects of life to ensure fairness and justice for all.