peculation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "peculation" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or formal contexts to refer to the act of embezzling or misappropriating funds, especially by a public official. Example: "The investigation revealed evidence of peculation within the department, leading to several arrests."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

He found that his treasurer, Harpalus, evidently fearing punishment for peculation, had absconded with 6,000 mercenaries and 5,000 talents to Greece; arrested in Athens, he escaped and later was murdered in Crete.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Both at court and in military commands, however, he had the constable Anne, duc de Montmorency, as his rival; and his enemies, particularly the chancellor Guillaume Poyet, conspired to get him accused of peculation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Honesty is the exception and peculation" — that is, embezzlement — "the rule".

The New York Times

History will decide on the 'major world space', but right now it would be good if the infections of intelligence and good taste presenting symptoms under Centre Point were to spread along the wretched length of Oxford Street... replacing 'irresponsibility, ignorance and peculation' with commodity, firmness and delight.

The Guardian - Arts

The architecture, he said, was beneath contempt: 'a morass of irresponsibility, ignorance and peculation.' So it is very good to learn that one of Oxford Street's most prominent landmarks is to get a serious makeover by proper architects and, in due course, possibly in time for the Olympics, a significant part of the capital will be handed back to civilisation.

The Guardian - Arts

Her second innings (1993-96) was, if anything, worse: charges of rampant peculation - and administrative ad-hockery - mounted, even as her avowedly moderate government orchestrated the creation of the Taliban in neighbouring Afghanistan.

The Guardian - Opinion

They looked about them and observed that politicians are, like most men, weak and corrupt, much given to hypocrisy and peculation.

The Guardian - Travel

He might pervert his administration into a scheme of peculation or oppression.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

This is only one of my many peculations.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "peculation" in formal writing or legal contexts when referring to the embezzlement or misappropriation of funds, especially by someone in a position of trust.

Common error

Avoid using "peculation" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler, more common terms like "embezzlement" or "theft" to ensure clarity and appropriateness.

Linguistic Context

The noun "peculation" functions as a subject or object in sentences, denoting the act of embezzling or misappropriating funds. As demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, it is often used in legal or formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Academia

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "peculation" refers to the embezzlement or misappropriation of funds, particularly by someone in a position of trust. As indicated by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and primarily used in formal contexts, such as legal documents, news reports, and academic writing. While synonyms like "embezzlement" and "misappropriation" exist, "peculation" often carries a stronger connotation of betrayal of public trust. Therefore, consider the formality and specific context when choosing whether to use "peculation" or a more common alternative. The phrase appears most frequently in news and encyclopedic sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

embezzlement

Focuses specifically on the fraudulent appropriation of funds or property entrusted to one's care.

misappropriation

Highlights the improper or unauthorized use of funds or assets.

defalcation

Emphasizes the act of defaulting on a financial obligation or trust.

financial misconduct

A broader term encompassing various unethical or illegal financial activities.

fraudulent appropriation

Stresses the deceitful nature of the act of taking something for one's own use.

illicit enrichment

Highlights the unlawful gain or benefit obtained through dishonest means.

breach of trust

Focuses on the violation of a duty or confidence placed in someone.

skimming

Refers to the practice of taking small amounts of money illicitly over a period of time.

mismanagement of funds

Indicates poor or irresponsible handling of financial resources.

corruption

A more general term referring to dishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power.

FAQs

What does "peculation" mean?

"Peculation" refers to the embezzlement or misappropriation of funds, especially by a person in a position of trust or authority.

How is "peculation" different from "embezzlement"?

While "peculation" and "embezzlement" are often used interchangeably, "peculation" often implies a violation of public trust or the misuse of public funds, while "embezzlement" is a broader term that can apply to private funds as well.

What are some synonyms for "peculation"?

Synonyms for "peculation" include "misappropriation", "defalcation", and "embezzlement".

How can I use "peculation" in a sentence?

Example: "The investigation revealed widespread "peculation" within the government agency."