Synonyms for

Corrupt

Verb / kɜ:ˈʌpt / Another word for corrupt — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

dishonest or willing to act dishonestly in return for money or personal gain

Synonyms & similar words

demoralise greaseonespalms defile debauch subvert incorrupt cloud vitiate bribe deprave pervert misdirect debase profane buy straight corrupted tainted crooked sully demoralize taint spoil dishonest unethical immoral depraved wicked crooked fraudulent bribable venal unscrupulous perverted debased decadent profligate vicious amoral sinful scandalous shameless sordid

Synonyms by register

Formal

debased perverted tainted vitiated

Informal

crooked shady bent dirty

Literary

defiled blighted spoiled

Antonyms

honest ethical virtuous upright incorruptible principled pure

Common collocations

  • corrupt official
  • corrupt practices
  • corrupt system
  • corrupt government
  • corruptible politician
  • deeply corrupt
  • morally corrupt

Word family

noun corruption
verb corrupt
adjective corrupt
adverb corruptly

Usage note

Can refer to moral decay, but also to the alteration or falsification of data or text. Be mindful of the context to understand the intended meaning.

Example sentences

  1. The politician was accused of being corrupt and taking bribes.
  2. The companys corrupt practices were exposed by an investigative journalist.
  3. The corrupt police officer was fired from his job.
  4. The corrupt judge was caught accepting bribes.
  5. The countrys corrupt leaders were overthrown in a revolution.

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