Political corruption is the use of legislated powers by government officials for illegitimate private gain. Misuse of government power for other purposes, such as repression of political opponents and general police brutality, is not considered political corruption. Neither are illegal acts by private persons or corporations not directly involved with the government. An illegal act by an officeholder constitutes political corruption only if the act is directly related to their official duties.

Forms of corruption vary, but include bribery, extortion, cronyism, nepotism, patronage, graft, and embezzlement. While corruption may facilitate criminal enterprise such as drug trafficking, money laundering, and trafficking, it is not restricted to these activities.

The activities that constitute illegal corruption differ depending on the country or jurisdiction. For instance, certain political funding practices that are legal in one place may be illegal in another. In some cases, government officials have broad or poorly defined powers, which make it difficult to distinguish between legal and illegal actions. Worldwide, bribery alone is estimated to involve over 1 trillion US dollars annually. A state of unrestrained political corruption is known as a kleptocracy, literally meaning "rule by thieves".

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA: /ˈpɒl.ɪ.tɪʃ.ən/, SAMPA: /"pQl.I.tIS.@n/
• Audio (US) (file)

politician (plural politicians)

1. One engaged in politics, especially an elected or appointed government official.

   Politicians should serve the country's interest.

2. Specifically, one who regards elected political office as a career.

   Unlike the other candidates, I'm not a politician.

   • 1996, Tom Clancy, Executive Orders, ISBN 0399142185, page 438:

     I never wanted to be one, and as far as I'm concerned, I'm not a politician now. Am I the best man for this job? Probably not. I am, however, the President of the United States, […]

3. A politically active or interested person.

   Only real politicians are interested in this issue.

   • 1863, “The Fountain Kloof”, in The Sunday at Home, page 211:

     You used to be such a politician. Do you remember the debates we held in Fitzroy's rooms?

4. A sly or ingratiating person.

   There is a politician in every office.

   • 1969, David E. Sanford, My Village, My World, page 90:

     Mrs. Dimitriou blushed at the compliment. "Antonios, you are such a politician," her husband chuckled.

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