C1nounbusinessmoney
US/braɪb/
UK/braɪb/
money or a gift given dishonestly to persuade someone, often an official, to help you
In context
The official was arrested for taking bribes from construction companies.
He refused to pay a bribe, so his license application was delayed for months.
Offering a bribe to a public servant is a serious crime in most countries.
Words that go with bribe
verb + noun
- take a bribeThe referee was accused of taking a bribe before the match.
- accept bribesOfficials who accept bribes will lose their jobs.
- offer a bribeThe driver tried to offer a bribe to the police officer.
- pay a bribeSmall businesses say they are pressured to pay a bribe.
noun + preposition
- bribe toHe admitted giving a bribe to a tax inspector.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
He received bribery.Correct: He took a bribe. / He was guilty of bribery.