Definition of Cronyism
Quick Meaning of Cronyism
Unfairly giving good jobs or benefits to your friends and people close to you, even if others are more qualified.
Detailed Definition of Cronyism
The practice of giving jobs, contracts, or other advantages to friends and close associates, especially as a favor, regardless of their qualifications or merit.
How to Pronounce Cronyism
Stress pattern: Ooo (3-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the first syllable: CROH-nee-iz-um. The first vowel sounds like 'oh' in 'go'.
Watch out: Some learners stress the second syllable (cro-NY-iz-um) or mispronounce the first vowel. Correct: CROH-nee-iz-um with stress on first syllable.
Origin and Etymology of Cronyism
From 'crony' (close friend, from Greek 'chronios' meaning 'of long duration', referring to long-time companions) + '-ism' suffix. Entered English in 20th century.
How to Use Cronyism in a Sentence
Each example shows “cronyism” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The government's infrastructure contracts were awarded through cronyism rather than competitive bidding.”
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“Cronyism in the corporate sector leads to inefficient hiring and poor decision-making.”
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“Anti-corruption agencies worked to eliminate cronyism and ensure transparent governance.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Cronyism
Common Synonyms for Cronyism
Smart Synonyms for Cronyism — When to Use Each
- nepotism
- Similar but favors relatives
- favouritism
- Broader term; cronyism is a specific type based
- old-boy network
- Informal phrase describing the practice of mutual advantage
Antonyms of Cronyism
Common Collocations with Cronyism
These phrases pair with “cronyism” in everyday English:
- practice of cronyism
- accusations of cronyism
- cronyism and corruption
- government cronyism
- corporate cronyism
Common Mistakes When Using Cronyism
Even fluent speakers slip up with “cronyism”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The cronyisms in the administration were exposed.
- ✓ Correct: The cronyism in the administration was exposed. / Multiple instances of cronyism in the administration were exposed.
- Why: Cronyism is uncountable; do not pluralize. Use 'instances of cronyism' for multiple cases.
- ✗ Wrong: Cronyism are harmful to democracy.
- ✓ Correct: Cronyism is harmful to democracy.
- Why: Cronyism is uncountable (singular); use singular verb 'is', not 'are'.
- ✗ Wrong: He is guilty of cronyisms.
- ✓ Correct: He is guilty of cronyism. / He has engaged in multiple instances of cronyism.
- Why: Cronyism is uncountable and cannot be pluralized. Express plurality differently.
Words Confused With Cronyism
- Cronyism vs Nepotism: Nepotism targets family members specifically; cronyism targets friends and associates
- Cronyism vs Corruption: Cronyism is one form of corruption but corruption is broader and includes other unethical practices
Other Forms of Cronyism
Frequently Asked Questions About Cronyism
What is the meaning of "Cronyism"?
Unfairly giving good jobs or benefits to your friends and people close to you, even if others are more qualified.
How do you pronounce "Cronyism"?
The IPA is /ˈkrəʊniɪzəm/. Stress the first syllable: CROH-nee-iz-um. The first vowel sounds like 'oh' in 'go'.
What part of speech is "Cronyism"?
"Cronyism" is a noun at C2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Cronyism"?
Common synonyms include favouritism, nepotism, back-scratching.
How do you use "Cronyism" in a sentence?
For example: "The government's infrastructure contracts were awarded through cronyism rather than competitive bidding."