a pattern of corruption

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a pattern of corruption" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a recurring or systematic occurrence of corrupt behavior or practices within an organization or system. Example: "The investigation revealed a pattern of corruption that had infiltrated several levels of the government."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Some were deeply unsettled when "Good Morning Afghanistan" uncovered a pattern of corruption among Kabul's traffic police, forcing the resignation of the force's chief.

The New York Times

His critics, though, say the receipts scandal is just the latest example of what they describe as a pattern of corruption by the first family.

The New York Times

The charges were not linked to the deaths, but the authorities portrayed his case as part of a pattern of corruption and incompetence that compromised safety enforcement.

The New York Times

More than a century ago, Congress brought articles of impeachment against War Secretary William Belknap in 1876, after the House of Representatives uncovered evidence supporting a pattern of corruption.

The Washington Post

And the problem at P.S. 178 is also one of several signals that the School Construction Authority, which started 12 years ago and showed signs of improvement in eliminating a pattern of corruption and ineptitude in school-building, is enduring troubles of its own.

The New York Times

Two years earlier, a report by Mr. Shaheen detailed a pattern of corruption at the highest levels of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, including the misuse of bureau employees for the personal benefit of the bureau's legendary director, J. Edgar Hoover, who died in 1972.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

We have just seen that the corruption of persons and institutions typically requires a pattern of corrupt actions.

SEP

Rudolph W. Giuliani, the United States Attorney in Manhattan, said the arrests were part of a continuing investigation that had uncovered "a pattern of substantial corruption" in the city's Housing Authority.

The New York Times

The Gómez administration (1909 13) set a pattern of graft, corruption, maladministration, fiscal irresponsibility, and social insensitivity especially toward Afro-Cubans that chAfro-Cubans thatn politicharacterized.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The scale, the audacity, the damage to the public good — all of it is in keeping with a pattern of epic corruption that has become the most dangerous side effect of, and threat to, China's boom.

The New Yorker

The scale, the audacity, the damage to the public good all of it is in keeping with a pattern of epic corruption that has become the most dangerous side effect of, and threat to, China's boom.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a pattern of corruption", ensure you provide specific examples or evidence to support the claim. Vague accusations can weaken your argument and credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "a pattern of corruption" as a standalone accusation without providing concrete details or examples. This can lead to accusations of bias or a lack of understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pattern of corruption" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object or subject complement in a sentence. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in describing recurring or systematic dishonest behavior within an organization or system.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a pattern of corruption" is a noun phrase used to describe recurring instances of unethical or illegal behavior, as validated by Ludwig AI. It functions primarily to identify and condemn systemic issues. The expression maintains a neutral to formal register and is most frequently observed in news media and scientific contexts. While grammatically correct, it's important to use this phrase with supporting evidence to maintain credibility, as advised by Ludwig. Related phrases include "systematic corruption" and "widespread corruption", which offer similar but nuanced ways to describe corrupt activities. The usage of this phrase requires care, as it implies more than just isolated incidents.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

systematic corruption

Highlights the organized and methodical nature of the corruption.

widespread corruption

Emphasizes the extensive reach and prevalence of the corruption.

endemic corruption

Suggests that corruption is deeply ingrained and difficult to eradicate.

culture of corruption

Indicates an environment where corrupt practices are accepted and normalized.

recurring corruption

Focuses on the repeated instances of corruption.

consistent corruption

Points to the unwavering and reliable nature of corrupt acts.

established corruption

Suggests that the corruption has been in place for a significant period.

routine corruption

Highlights the regular and unremarkable occurrence of corrupt behavior.

pervasive corruption

Indicates that corruption is widespread and affects many aspects of a system.

institutionalized corruption

Signifies that corruption is embedded within the structures of an organization.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a pattern of corruption" in a sentence?

To use "a pattern of corruption" effectively, provide context and evidence. For instance, "The investigation revealed "a pattern of corruption" within the department, including bribery and embezzlement."

What are some alternatives to saying "a pattern of corruption"?

Instead of "a pattern of corruption", you could use phrases such as "systematic corruption", "widespread corruption", or "endemic corruption", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a pattern of corruption" in formal writing?

Yes, "a pattern of corruption" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing political, economic, or social issues. However, ensure your claims are well-supported with evidence.

What distinguishes "a pattern of corruption" from "isolated incidents of corruption"?

"A pattern of corruption" implies repeated and systematic occurrences, while "isolated incidents of corruption" suggests singular, unrelated events. The former indicates a systemic issue, while the latter points to individual misconduct.