suborn - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
suborn Word Meanings
- to bribe someone to do something illegal
- to induce someone to commit perjury
- to secretly persuade someone to act unethically
suborn Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
suborn Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/səˈbɔːn/
US
/səˈbɔrn/
suborn Word Etymology
sub- = under + ornare = to adorn. Origin: Latin → French → English. Imagine someone hiding a bribe under a table while adorning a friend's trust with lies.
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 InputReal Context
Suborn is a formal verb meaning to bribe someone to commit an illegal act, most often to induce a person to lie under oath. It can target a witness, a juror, or any participant who could influence a proceeding. The term stresses the covert, unlawful nature of the offer or promise, and it carries a strong sense of moral and legal wrongdoing. In practice, prosecutors use it to describe attempts to undermine the integrity of testimony rather than ordinary bribery. Because it implies deception and perjury, it is frequently associated with the crime of perverting the course of justice and can carry serious penalties.
Usage Reminders
- Suborn refers to inducing someone to lie under oath, not just any bribery.
- It is a formal, legal term often used in court contexts.
- It specifically relates to witnesses or others who influence testimony.
- Do not confuse with general bribery of a non-witness; the legal weight differs.
- Common collocations: suborn a witness, suborn perjury, charges of perverting the course of justice.
Common Misconceptions
- Suborn and bribe are the same in all contexts, which is not true; suborn has a legal specificity.
- Suborn means paying anyone to steal or commit any crime; it specifically refers to influencing testimony.
- Perjury and suborning are the same act; in fact, suborning can lead to perjury, but they are distinct charges.
- Suborn is a modern everyday term; it is actually formal and relatively rare in casual speech.
- Only witnesses can be suborned; in fact, other participants who affect testimony can be targeted.
Thinking Differences
In English, suborn is a formal, legal term often used in court contexts. Learners may think it only means bribery in general, but its strong link to false testimony and perjury makes it heavier and more specific than everyday bribe language.
Learning Tips
- Learn the core meaning: to induce false testimony through bribery.
- Pair with common collocations: suborn a witness, suborn perjury.
- Distinguish from general bribery; focus on legal context.
- Watch for legal phrases: perjury, obstruc tion of justice (note spacing).
- Practice with court-related sentences to build formal tone.
- Pronounce: suh-BORN, with emphasis on BORN.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'suborn' used correctly?
A.They suborns their feelings easily.
B.She studied hard to suborn for the exam.
C.He suborned the witness to lie in court.
D.The teacher suborns the students' understanding.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'suborn'?
A.Purify
B.Corrupt
C.Assist
D.Ignore
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'suborn'?
A.Expose
B.Honour
C.Reward
D.Comfort
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life scenario might someone try to suborn another person?
A.In a gym to exercise
B.During a job interview to show qualifications
C.At a birthday party to celebrate
D.In a court case to influence testimony
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App