B2adjectiveformalpoliticscrime
US/kəˈrʌpt/
UK/kəˈrʌpt/
dishonest and willing to do illegal things in exchange for money or power
In context
The mayor was accused of being corrupt and took bribes.
Many people no longer trust the corrupt political system.
The police chief was a corrupt official who protected criminals.
Words that go with corrupt
adjective + noun
- corrupt officialA corrupt official demanded money for the permit.
- corrupt governmentCitizens protested against the corrupt government.
- corrupt practicesThe company was fined for corrupt practices.
adverb + adjective
- deeply corruptThe police force was deeply corrupt.
- morally corruptHe became morally corrupt after years in power.
- totally corruptSome people believe the whole system is totally corrupt.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
a corruption officialCorrect: a corrupt official