Adulterate

To Adulterate means to make something poorer in quality by adding another substance, typically an inferior one. This action often involves corrupting or debasing something pure by introducing impure elements. It implies a deliberate act to diminish the value or integrity of the original. The adulteration can apply to a wide variety of subjects, from food and beverages to materials, ideas, or even relationships. This practice can be driven by a desire to increase profits through deception or by simply lowering standards to meet demands, but always compromises the product's intended state and its inherent quality. Adulteration fundamentally involves an unwelcome change or reduction in the quality of a substance.

Adulterate meaning with examples

• The coffee seller was caught adulterating his product by mixing ground chicory with the coffee beans to reduce costs and increase profits. The customers, unaware of this practice, received a weaker, less flavorful cup of coffee than they expected and paid for. This act of adulteration was a clear instance of consumer fraud and breached trust.
• The ancient artifacts found during excavation appeared to be adulterated with modern materials to make them seem older and increase their value. This deceptive practice undermines the historical importance of those artifacts and misleads anyone researching this area.
• The drug company was found adulterating the pharmaceuticals by reducing the quantity of active ingredient in the drugs to increase their profit margin. Patients relying on these medications risked the ineffectiveness of their treatment, leading to serious health consequences.
• During the war, the government was suspected of adulterating the news by including deceptive propaganda, influencing people’s opinions. This misinformation was intended to maintain support for the war effort by promoting a specific viewpoint and manipulating the public's understanding of the conflict.