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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.

cronyism

/ˈkroʊniˌɪzəm/ /ˈkrəʊniˌɪzəm/

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.

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