Bribery is a term that refers to the act of giving or receiving something of value, usually money, to influence someone’s behavior or decision-making process. This practice is illegal and unethical, and it can undermine the fairness and integrity of various institutions and systems.
Definitions
The legal definition of bribery varies depending on the jurisdiction, but it generally involves offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value in exchange for a favor or advantage. Bribery can take many forms, such as cash payments, gifts, favors, or promises of future benefits.
Origin
The word “bribery” comes from the Old French word “bribier,” which means to steal or plunder. The term was first used in the English language in the 14th century, and it originally referred to the act of extorting money or property from someone through force or intimidation.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, bribery is defined as “the act of giving or receiving a bribe, typically in order to influence the conduct of a person in a position of trust.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as “the act or practice of giving or taking a bribe.”
Associations
Bribery is often associated with corruption, as it can be used to gain unfair advantages or to subvert the rule of law. It is also associated with politics, business, and law enforcement, as these fields are particularly vulnerable to bribery and other forms of misconduct.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for bribery include corruption, graft, payola, kickback, and hush money.
Antonyms
The antonyms of bribery include honesty, integrity, transparency, and fairness.
The same root words
The same root words as bribery include bribe, bribable, bribed, briber, and bribing.
Example Sentences
- The politician was accused of accepting bribes from a construction company in exchange for awarding them a lucrative contract.
- The company’s CEO was found guilty of bribery and sentenced to ten years in prison.
- The police officer was fired for soliciting bribes from motorists to overlook traffic violations.
- The judge recused himself from the case due to allegations of bribery by the defendant’s lawyer.
- The company implemented strict anti-bribery policies to prevent unethical behavior among its employees.