Cronyism - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Cronyism is the unfair practice of favoring friends or associates, especially by giving them jobs or advantages based on personal connections rather than merit or qualifications.
Definition:
Favoritism shown to friends or associates, especially in appointing jobs or granting advantages.
Synonyms:
nepotism, favoritism, partiality, patronage
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
fairness, impartiality, meritocracy
Common Collocations:
political cronyism, corporate cronyism, accusations of cronyism, rampant cronyism
Derivatives:
crony, cronies
Usage Tips:
Use "cronyism" to describe unfair favoritism in professional or political contexts, not casual friendships.
Common Phrases:
old boys' network, back-scratching culture, jobs for the boys
Etymology:
Derived from "crony" (close friend) + "-ism," originating in 18th-century British university slang for long-time companions.
Examples:
- 1. The mayor was accused of cronyism after hiring his unqualified friends.
- 2. Cronyism undermines trust in government by prioritizing personal connections over merit.
- 3. Many companies fail due to cronyism in leadership roles.
- 4. The scandal exposed widespread cronyism in the industry.