Spanish word

corrupción

Pronunciation

IPA/korupˈθjon/

Meaning

  • feminine nouncorruption

Example

La corrupción en el gobierno es un problema.

Corruption in the government is a problem.

Illustration for corrupción (corruption)

More examples

Los ciudadanos exigen medidas para combatir la corrupción.

Citizens demand measures to combat corruption.

Core concept

Broken scales of justice leaning to one side.

Common phrases

  • corrupción política

    political corruption

  • casos de corrupción

    cases of corruption

  • lucha contra la corrupción

    fight against corruption

Similar words

soborno: Payment or gift to an official to obtain improper favors or advantages.
fraude: Illicit gain through deception, lies, or fake documents to cheat others.
malversación: Misappropriation of public funds or property for personal use.
nepotismo: Preferential appointment of family or friends to jobs or benefits regardless of merit.

Definition in Spanish

Abuso del poder público o privado para obtener un beneficio ilegal o inmoral, como sobornos, malversación o fraude, que daña la confianza en las instituciones.

Word origin

The Spanish word corrupción comes from Latin corruptio, from the verb corrumpere meaning 'to spoil' or 'break', and it denotes the spoiling of moral or institutional integrity.

Usage tips

  • When alleging wrongdoing, journalists and speakers often use phrases like 'presunta corrupción' or 'un caso de corrupción' to avoid direct accusations.

Other meanings

  • depravitynoun
  • corrupt practicesnoun

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word