hint of corruption

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hint of corruption" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to suggest a subtle or slight indication of dishonest or unethical behavior, often in a political or organizational context. Example: "The investigation revealed a hint of corruption within the department, raising concerns about the integrity of its operations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Mrs. Merkel, a sober public presence, has been untouched by any hint of corruption since taking office in late 2005.

The New York Times

Its leaders also know that any hint of corruption will be pounced on by law-enforcement agencies run by UMNO appointees.For all its wobbles, though, Mr Anwar's coalition is still intact.

The Economist

He will need all his courage to stand up to lobbying from the political parties that supported him; he needs to pick on merit, and avoid any hint of corruption.

The Economist

Following recent attention brought to corruption in the military, Mr. Anthony said on Thursday that a multibillion dollar deal to buy 126 fighter jets for the air force would be cancelled if there was any hint of corruption in the deal.

The New York Times

There is not a hint of corruption in the Treasurer's office and Giannoulias revamped and improved many programs, including Bright Start.

Huffington Post

With Mexico then in the midst of a contentious telecom reform, the public may've been especially primed to pounce on any hint of corruption or wasteful IT spending.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Mr. Chirac, who has been dogged for years by hints of corruption during his terms as mayor and as leader of his conservative Gaullist party, went on television tonight to dismiss the accusations as a "fantastic story".

The New York Times

Four years after C.M.E.C. struck its deal, the bargain appears to be unwinding over hints of corruption and global objections to a dam that would destroy Kongou Falls, one of central Africa's most treasured waterfalls.

The New York Times

A young policeman, temporarily lost overnight in the bush with a novice female reporter whilst trying to rescue a fallen climber contemplates the possible consequences of this and the hints of corruption he has experienced.

The Guardian - Books

Mr. Chirac, who has been dogged for years by hints of corruption during his terms as mayor and as leader of his conservative Gaullist party, took the highly unusual step of going on television on Thursday night to dismiss Mr. Mery's accusations as a "fantastic story".

The New York Times

Apparently not, judging by the hints of infidelity, corruption and parenting problems shaping the premiere episode of the series.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hint of corruption" to subtly introduce concerns about ethical behavior without making direct accusations. This approach allows you to raise questions and prompt further investigation without being overly accusatory.

Common error

Avoid using "hint of corruption" when there is substantial evidence available. If there's concrete proof of wrongdoing, use stronger terms such as "evidence of corruption" or "blatant corruption" to accurately reflect the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hint of corruption" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to introduce a subtle indication or suspicion of unethical behavior. It is often employed in contexts where direct accusations are not yet warranted or provable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "hint of corruption" is a grammatically correct and usable English expression, as Ludwig AI confirms, employed to suggest a subtle indication of dishonest or unethical behavior. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to raise concerns about potential misconduct without making direct accusations. While less common than related phrases like "evidence of corruption", it provides a nuanced way to introduce the possibility of unethical conduct. When employing this phrase, avoid overstating the case and ensure that you are not using it in place of stronger, more conclusive evidence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

trace of corruption

Emphasizes a very small amount or sign of corruption.

suggestion of corruption

Indicates a slightly more direct implication of corruption than a mere hint.

whiff of corruption

Implies a brief and often unpleasant indication of corruption.

suspicion of corruption

Focuses on the feeling or belief that corruption may be present.

inkling of corruption

Suggests a vague or uncertain sense of corruption.

shadow of corruption

Indicates a looming presence or potential for corruption.

element of corruption

Points out that corruption is just one part of a wider problem.

aroma of corruption

Has a negative connotation, emphasizing that corruption is all pervasive.

evidence of corruption

Stronger phrase indicating factual corruption that can be proved.

allegation of corruption

Indicates an unproven accusation or claim of corruption.

FAQs

How can I use "hint of corruption" in a sentence?

You can use "hint of corruption" to suggest a subtle indication of dishonest or unethical behavior. For example: "The investigation revealed a "hint of corruption" within the department, raising concerns about the integrity of its operations."

What can I say instead of "hint of corruption"?

You can use alternatives like "trace of corruption", "suggestion of corruption", or "whiff of corruption" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "hint of corruption"?

It's appropriate when you want to suggest that there might be some unethical or illegal activity, but you don't have enough proof to make a direct accusation. It's useful for raising concerns and prompting further investigation.

What's the difference between ""hint of corruption"" and "evidence of corruption"?

"Hint of corruption" suggests a slight indication or suspicion, while "evidence of corruption" implies that there is concrete proof available.