Word
corrupt
Meanings
Dishonest and willing to abuse power for personal gain.
To make someone morally worse or less honest, especially by encouraging wrongdoing.
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To damage a computer file or data so it cannot be read or used correctly.
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Definition
Corrupt means dishonest or willing to misuse power, especially for personal gain.
Someone or something that is corrupt behaves dishonestly, often by abusing authority to get money, favors, or influence. The word can also describe systems where unfair or illegal practices are common. It may also mean that data or files have become damaged and can no longer be used properly.
Examples
- The journalist gathered enough evidence to show that the local administration was corrupt.
- I refused to join the group because its leader was openly corrupt and demanded favors in return for access.
- You can’t build trust when your organization is corrupt at every level.
- She worried that accepting the gift might corrupt her judgment during the selection process.
- They discovered that a power outage had corrupt the backup files during the transfer.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse corrupt (dishonest) with corrupted (damaged or spoiled), especially when describing files or data.
More at C1 level
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- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.
More adjectives
- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
- pragmatic Pragmatic means focused on practical results rather than ideals or theories.
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- cynical Cynical describes believing that people are mainly motivated by self-interest and not sincere.
- apathetic Apathetic means showing little or no interest, concern, or enthusiasm.