Synonyms for

Bribes

Verb / braɪbz / Another word for bribes — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Bribes are something given or promised to someone in order to influence their behavior or actions, often in a dishonest or illegal way.

Synonyms & similar words

payoff buy bribe greaseonespalms corrupt payoff kickback backhander inducement sweetener incentive enticement corruption graft grease payola squeeze shakedown extortion blackmail compensation reward tip favor

Synonyms by register

Formal

inducements expediencies gratifications

Informal

payoffs kickbacks hush money grease money

Literary

dark gifts ill-gotten gains

Antonyms

gifts donations contributions offerings gratuities rewards

Common collocations

  • offer bribes
  • accept bribes
  • pay bribes
  • demand bribes
  • investigate bribes
  • fight bribes
  • prevent bribes

Word family

noun bribe
verb bribe
adjective bribable

Usage note

Bribes are typically given to influence a person in a position of trust to act dishonestly. The term often carries a strong negative connotation of corruption.

Example sentences

  1. The businessman offered the official a bribe to get a permit for his new hotel.
  2. The police officer was fired for taking bribes from drug dealers.
  3. The judge refused to accept any bribes in exchange for a lighter sentence.
  4. The athlete received a bribe to throw the game.
  5. The company was accused of paying bribes to foreign officials to secure contracts.

Quotes

  • The only thing worse than a liar is a liar that's also a hypocrite!
  • I cannot accept any bribes.
  • If you want to know how honest somebody is, just ask them. If they say they're honest, you know they're crooked.

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