corruption - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
corruption Word Meanings
- Dishonest or unethical behavior, usually in politics.
- The act of corrupting or the state of being corrupt.
- The decay or deterioration of something, often due to moral decline.
corruption Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
corruption Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kəˈrʌp.ʃən/
US
/kəˈrʌp.ʃən/
corruption Word Etymology
Root: 'corrupt' (cor- = together + rumpere = break) suggests breaking together. Origin: Latin 'corruptio' through Old French to English. Memory image: Imagine a broken bridge that is decaying, symbolizing trust broken among people.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
Hands on the wheel, I push the lever and feel the route shift. The plan changes in my mind, moving from clean to a compromised path as the dashboard lights flicker. I adjust my grip and keep steady, the effort making my arms burn a little. The sense of corruption arrives not as a definition but as a pull that bends a choice away from fairness.
Real Context
Corruption is the abuse of entrusted power for private gain. In politics and business, it often means accepting bribes, kickbacks, or favors to influence decisions. It can undermine democracy, distort markets, erode trust, and weaken public institutions. The noun also covers the process of something becoming morally decayed, not just people; you can speak of corruption of standards, of artifacts, or of digital data. Different countries define and fight corruption in varying ways, and anti corruption laws and agencies exist to investigate and sanction it. As an adjective corrupt describes a person or action that is morally wrong or compromised; phrases like corruption of power are common in political critique.
Usage Reminders
- Identify corruption as an abuse of power for private gain.
- Differentiate corruption from simple decay or mismanagement.
- Note common collocations like political corruption and corruption of power.
- Remember corrupt as an adjective meaning morally wrong or compromised.
- Be aware of regional differences in how corruption is defined and prosecuted.
Common Misconceptions
- Corruption only means bribery
- All corruption requires large money
- Corruption only happens in politics
- Corruption is the same as decay of buildings
- Corruption is a strictly legal term
Thinking Differences
English learners should note that corruption spans both moral wrongdoing and a form of decay; avoid thinking it only means bribery, and remember phrases like corruption of power.
Learning Tips
- Identify corruption as abuse of power for private gain.
- Differentiate corruption from simple decay or mismanagement.
- Note common collocations like political corruption and corruption of power.
- Remember corrupt as an adjective meaning morally wrong or compromised.
- Be aware of regional differences in how corruption is defined and prosecuted.
- Practice with country-specific examples to see how terms differ.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'corruption'?
A.Dishonest behavior
B.Happy feeling
C.Fast runner
D.Tall building
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'corruption' used correctly?
A.The cat enjoys corruption in the sun.
B.I corruption the beautiful sunset.
C.Corruption is a serious issue in politics.
D.She corruption her math homework.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'corruption'?
A.Dishonesty
B.Honesty
C.Decency
D.Integrity
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'corruption'?
A.Truthfulness
B.Purity
C.Goodness
D.Deception
Step 5: Mastery
How does 'corruption' apply in real-world situations?
A.Corruption promotes fairness.
B.Corruption leads to happiness.
C.Corruption improves trust.
D.Corruption can undermine democracy.
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