Definition
Embezzlement refers to the act of dishonestly taking money or property that has been entrusted to one’s care, typically by an employer, for one’s own personal gain.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Noun
Synonyms
Misappropriation, theft, stealing, fraud, larceny, pilferage
Antonyms
Honesty, integrity, trustworthiness
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | embezzler, embezzlements, embezzlers, embezzlement |
| Verb | embezzle, embezzling, embezzles, embezzled |
| Adjective | None |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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The CEO was arrested for embezzlement of company funds.
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The employee was caught committing embezzlement after an internal audit revealed missing funds.
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The embezzlement scheme went undetected for years, until a whistleblower came forward.
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The embezzler was sentenced to five years in prison for stealing from the company.
Usage
Embezzlement is a serious crime that can have severe consequences for both the perpetrator and the victim. The word is typically used in the context of white-collar crimes, where individuals in positions of trust, such as executives or accountants, steal money or property from their employers or clients.
Embezzlement can take many forms, including stealing cash, diverting funds to personal accounts, using company credit cards for personal expenses, or falsifying records to cover up theft. In many cases, the embezzler will try to conceal their activities by creating false documentation or manipulating accounting records.
The root of the word “embezzlement” is the French word “embesiller”, which means “to steal”. The word “embezzlement” itself has a negative connotation and implies a breach of trust. It is often used in legal contexts and can lead to criminal charges and prosecution.
In order to prevent embezzlement, companies and organizations may establish internal controls and procedures to ensure that financial transactions are properly recorded and monitored. These controls may include segregation of duties, regular audits, and employee background checks. By taking steps to prevent embezzlement, companies can protect their assets and maintain the trust of their stakeholders.