identify wrongdoing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "identify wrongdoing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one is discussing the act of recognizing or pointing out unethical or illegal behavior. Example: "The investigator's role is to identify wrongdoing within the organization and report it to the authorities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

But regulators and investors are wondering if those cops are encouraged to identify wrongdoing by an individual or group that produces significant revenues.

The New York Times

This year's arrests came after News Corp, the British unit's U.S.-based parent company, handed police information, including millions of e-mails, to identify wrongdoing.

The New York Times

The BVI actively investigates issues of non-compliance and works with foreign competent authorities to detect, prevent and prosecute illegal activities, ensuring that our laws are enforced and action taken transparently when we identify wrongdoing".

The Guardian

Andrew Proctor, the FSA's head of enforcement, left two weeks ago.This fresh look may include using more often the FSA's statutory power to require firms themselves to appoint outside experts, with a duty of care to both company and regulator, to trawl through their records and identify wrongdoing.

The Economist

ORI's investigation did not identify wrongdoing by any other authors on the papers, including Wagers.

Science Magazine

The settlement replaced a costly and time-consuming process in which the Fed and OCC required the servicers to hire consultants to audit foreclosures to identify wrongdoing.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Both of those are targeted acts focused on an identified wrongdoing or event".

Huffington Post

Whistleblowers are ostracized and isolated for identifying wrongdoings.

Arab Economic and Business Journal

The suit was dismissed because it "did not identify any wrongdoing on Mylan's part," the company said.

The New York Times

Students self-reported that the sessions on science ethics were helpful and that after the course they could more easily identify scientific wrongdoing.

CBE Life Sciences Education

A former C.I.A. officer said that successive audits identified no wrongdoing.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal contexts, pair "identify wrongdoing" with specific actions taken, such as "report to authorities" or "implement corrective measures", to highlight the complete process of addressing the issue.

Common error

While "identify wrongdoing" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or bureaucratic in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "find what's wrong" or "spot mistakes" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "identify wrongdoing" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the action of discovering and recognizing unethical or illegal behavior. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "identify wrongdoing" is a grammatically sound and professionally suitable term for describing the discovery of unethical or illegal actions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it fits seamlessly into various contexts, especially those involving investigations and compliance. While predominantly found in news and scientific publications, it's advisable to consider context and opt for simpler alternatives in informal settings. Alternatives such as "detect misconduct" or "uncover corruption" can provide nuanced expression, enriching your vocabulary while maintaining clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

detect misconduct

Focuses specifically on improper or unprofessional behavior.

uncover corruption

Implies a deeper, more systemic level of unethical behavior being revealed.

expose malfeasance

Suggests revealing acts of wrongdoing, especially by public officials.

reveal impropriety

Highlights the disclosure of something considered inappropriate.

discover irregularities

Emphasizes finding anomalies or deviations from the norm.

find fault

Focuses on locating errors or shortcomings in a system or process.

investigate illegalities

Suggests an official inquiry into unlawful actions.

spot infractions

Highlights the ability to quickly notice violations of rules or laws.

determine culpability

Focuses on establishing responsibility or guilt for a wrongdoing.

ascertain liability

Suggests determining legal responsibility for damages or wrongdoing.

FAQs

How can I use "identify wrongdoing" in a sentence?

You can use "identify wrongdoing" to describe the act of discovering unethical or illegal behavior, such as: "The purpose of the audit was to identify wrongdoing within the company" or "The new system is designed to identify wrongdoing more efficiently".

What are some alternatives to "identify wrongdoing"?

Alternatives to "identify wrongdoing" include "detect misconduct", "uncover corruption", or "expose malfeasance", depending on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is it better to use "identify wrongdoing" or "report wrongdoing"?

"Identify wrongdoing" refers to the process of discovering unethical or illegal acts, while "report wrongdoing" refers to the act of communicating those findings to the appropriate authorities. The choice depends on whether you are focusing on the discovery or the reporting aspect.

What's the difference between "investigate irregularities" and "identify wrongdoing"?

"Investigate irregularities" focuses on examining deviations from the norm, while "identify wrongdoing" implies a more specific focus on uncovering unethical or illegal acts. "Investigating irregularities" may lead to identifying wrongdoing, but not all irregularities necessarily constitute wrongdoing.