intrinsically corrupt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intrinsically corrupt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is fundamentally or inherently corrupt in nature, often in a moral or ethical context. Example: "The system was deemed intrinsically corrupt, leading to widespread distrust among the citizens."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The present system was "intrinsically corrupt".

Independent

Some senior figures in the industry object to this, and argue that the inference behind every legislative initiative is that lobbying is intrinsically corrupt.

The Guardian

Some may not care that this risks alienating nonaligned voters, believing that submission of principle to electoral arithmetic is intrinsically corrupt and that honourable defeat is worthier than tainted victory.

The Guardian - Opinion

The very activities needed to fight wars are intrinsically corrupt, and cannot be redeemed by the supposed justice of the ends they are aimed at.

SEP

As they write, "Importantly, consumers of pangolin scales are not intrinsically corrupt: they are ordinary citizens albeit misinformed, often sick or elderly searching for a traditional remedy".

Vice

Its quest to unseat the current government – which it sees as intrinsically corrupt – continues, and for as long as it does, so will the chaos on Bangkok's streets.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

In MRI, raw data are intrinsically complex valued and corrupted with zero mean Gaussian distributed noise with equal variance [1].

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

Khmer Rouge leaders "considered city-dwellers to be intrinsically disloyal and concluded that they would remain politically and ideologically corrupt," the court recounted.

Vice

So even if people are intrinsically good, a system that rewards people for being bad will corrupt the practices of those people.

Huffington Post

The drawing of a sharp distinction between spirit and matter has been invariably motivated by a value judgment: namely, that spirit (or soul) is intrinsically good and of transcendent origin, whereas matter is essentially evil and corrupting.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Is life intrinsically valuable?

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "intrinsically corrupt", ensure that the context clearly demonstrates the inherent nature of the corruption, rather than a superficial or circumstantial one.

Common error

Avoid using "intrinsically corrupt" as a hyperbolic statement. Ensure that the situation genuinely reflects deep-seated, inherent corruption, not just a temporary lapse in ethics or judgment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intrinsically corrupt" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun, indicating that the noun's corruption is a fundamental and inherent characteristic. As Ludwig suggests, the phrase is often used to describe systems, institutions, or practices deemed to be fundamentally flawed.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "intrinsically corrupt" is a powerful adjective phrase used to describe something fundamentally and inherently corrupt. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and highlights its common use in news, media, and academic contexts. While alternatives like ""inherently corrupt"" or ""fundamentally corrupt"" exist, "intrinsically corrupt" carries a specific connotation of deep-seated, inseparable corruption. When using this phrase, ensure the context supports the assertion of inherent corruption and avoid overuse in hyperbolic statements. Be mindful to use the phrase in context of systems, institutions or practices as opposed to individuals. By considering these nuances, you can effectively and accurately convey the depth of corruption you wish to express.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inherently corrupt

Emphasizes the inborn or natural quality of corruption.

fundamentally corrupt

Highlights the foundational or essential corruption at its core.

inherently dishonest

Focuses specifically on the lack of honesty as an intrinsic trait.

fundamentally flawed

Indicates a basic defect or weakness in the underlying structure.

incorrigibly corrupt

Suggests that the corruption is beyond reform or correction.

unredeemably corrupt

Implies that the corruption is so deep-seated that it cannot be salvaged.

systemically corrupt

Indicates that the corruption is embedded within the entire system.

structurally corrupt

Highlights that corruption is built into the structure or design.

institutionally corrupt

Focuses on corruption within an institution or organization.

morally bankrupt

Indicates a complete lack of moral or ethical principles.

FAQs

How can I use "intrinsically corrupt" in a sentence?

You can use "intrinsically corrupt" to describe systems, institutions, or practices that are fundamentally corrupt. For example, "The old regime was "intrinsically corrupt", riddled with bribery and nepotism."

What are some alternatives to "intrinsically corrupt"?

Alternatives include "inherently corrupt", "fundamentally corrupt", or "systemically corrupt", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to describe individuals as "intrinsically corrupt"?

While it is possible, it's generally more accurate to describe systems or institutions as "intrinsically corrupt". Describing an individual this way implies their corruption is an inherent part of their character, which can be a strong accusation.

What is the difference between "intrinsically corrupt" and "morally corrupt"?

"Intrinsically corrupt" suggests the corruption is fundamental to the nature of something, while "morally corrupt" implies a violation of ethical principles. A system can be "intrinsically corrupt" due to its structure, leading individuals to become "morally corrupt".