totally corrupt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "totally corrupt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is completely dishonest or unethical, often in a political or organizational context. Example: "The investigation revealed that the officials were totally corrupt, accepting bribes and misusing public funds."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Transparency International ranks a country's perceived corruption on a scale of zero to 100, with zeero being totally corrupt and 100 squeaky clean.

Vice

"They were totally corrupt".

The New York Times

"China's judicial system is totally corrupt and paralysed.

The Guardian - Arts

But they also created the public impression that the police department was totally corrupt".

The New York Times

We want to assure ourselves that this institution is not totally corrupt".

The Guardian

We're talking about Hudson County Frank Hagueue was the boss — a totally corrupt place.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

The situation totally corrupted him.

The New York Times - Science

The judicial system was totally corrupted.

The New York Times

Worst Thing About Washington: Today, it has been totally corrupted by money.

The New York Times - Magazine

"It has become such a commercialized and jingoistic spectacle that the original classic idea of the Games has been totally corrupted.

The New York Times

It's a good job you don't have any influence or place-names would be totally corrupted in one generation.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "totally corrupt", ensure that the context clearly supports such a strong condemnation. Provide specific examples or evidence to substantiate the claim.

Common error

Avoid using "totally corrupt" as a mere hyperbole. Reserve it for situations where there is overwhelming evidence of widespread dishonesty and unethical behavior. If you can't back the claim, you may want to use other descriptions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "totally corrupt" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a complete lack of integrity or ethical standards. Ludwig confirms its correctness. It can be used to describe individuals, organizations, or systems.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

12%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

3%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "totally corrupt" is a common and forceful way to describe something as completely lacking in integrity. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is correct and usable. It is frequently employed in news and media to express strong disapproval. When using this phrase, be sure that your context justifies such a strong accusation. Alternatives such as ""completely corrupt"" or "utterly corrupt" may be suitable depending on the intended emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely corrupt

Emphasizes the completeness of the corruption.

utterly corrupt

Stresses the extreme degree of corruption.

absolutely corrupt

Highlights the lack of any redeeming qualities due to corruption.

entirely corrupt

Similar to 'completely corrupt', indicating full corruption.

wholly corrupt

Indicates corruption in every aspect.

thoroughly corrupt

Suggests a deep and pervasive corruption.

radically corrupt

Implies that corruption is fundamental and deeply rooted.

incorrigibly corrupt

Indicates that the corruption is beyond reform.

hopelessly corrupt

Conveys a sense that the situation is beyond redemption due to corruption.

irreparably corrupt

Highlights the irreversible nature of the corruption.

FAQs

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

You can use "totally corrupt" to describe systems, institutions, or individuals marked by extreme dishonesty and unethical behavior. For example: "The investigation revealed a "completely corrupt" network of officials."

What are some alternatives to saying "totally corrupt"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like ""completely corrupt"", "utterly corrupt", or "absolutely corrupt" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "totally corrupt" in formal writing?

While "totally corrupt" is generally acceptable, consider the tone and audience. In some formal contexts, you might prefer alternatives like "systemically corrupt" or "pervasively corrupt" for a more nuanced approach.

What distinguishes "totally corrupt" from "corrupt"?

"Totally corrupt" emphasizes the completeness and pervasiveness of the corruption. Simply stating "corrupt" might imply a lesser degree of unethical behavior, whereas "totally corrupt" indicates a situation where every aspect is tainted.