German word

Korruption

Pronunciation

IPA/kɔʁʊpˈtsi̯oːn/

Meaning

  • feminine nouncorruption

Example

Wir kämpfen gegen die Korruption.

We fight corruption.

Illustration for Korruption (corruption)

More examples

Whistleblower meldeten einen Verdacht auf Korruption in der Behörde.

Whistleblowers reported a suspicion of corruption within the agency.

Core concept

Influence that should serve the public is secretly traded for money, favors, or personal advantage.

Common phrases

  • Verdacht auf Korruption

    suspicion of corruption

  • Opfer der Korruption

    victim of corruption

  • mit Korruption in Verbindung stehen

    be linked to corruption

Similar words

Bestechung: Offering money or gifts to secure an improper favor.
Amtsmissbrauch: Using official authority improperly for personal benefit.
Schmiergeld: Money paid to secure a favor or business deal.
Nepotismus: Giving jobs or positions to relatives and close associates.

Definition in German

Illegale oder unethische Nutzung von Einfluss oder Amt zur persönlichen Bereicherung, besonders durch Bestechung.

Word origin

The German noun is a borrowing of Latin "corruptio", which denoted corruption and bribery and came from "corrumpere".

Usage tips

  • German often uses "Korruption" for the broad problem, while "Bestechung" names the specific act of bribery.

Other meanings

  • briberynoun

Opposites

  • Integritätintegritynoun

Related words

  • korruptcorruptadjective
  • korrumpierendcorruptingadjective
  • Korruptionsbekämpfungcombating corruptionnoun

Word lists with this word