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Cronyism

UK //ˈkrəʊnɪɪzəm// US //ˈkroʊniˌɪzəm// Pronunciation

Definition

The practice of favoring friends when giving jobs or advantages.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Giving jobs to friends instead of being fair.

Examples

• The scandal involved cronyism that led to unfair hiring practices.
• Many criticized the government for its cronyism, claiming it hurt public trust.
• He was accused of cronyism for promoting his friends over qualified candidates.
• In business, cronyism can lead to a toxic workplace environment.
• The mayor's cronyism was evident in the city's contract awards.

Usage notes

Used in political or business contexts; often negative. Avoid using in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Sounds like 'cronies' - imagine friends in power helping each other.

Collocations

• political cronyism
• business cronyism
• accusations of cronyism

Synonyms

• favoritism
• nepotism
• bias
• crony
• insider dealing

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'nepotism', which is specifically about family connections.
• Incorrectly used in neutral contexts; it usually has a negative connotation.
• Mispronounced due to unfamiliarity with the word.