Ill-begotten

Ill-begotten describes something gained or acquired through dishonest, unfair, or immoral means. This often implies illegality or unethical behavior, suggesting the acquisition comes with negative moral implications. It frequently refers to wealth, power, or possessions that were earned through exploitation, deception, or criminal activity. The term carries a strong negative connotation, emphasizing the impropriety and often the suffering inflicted on others during the acquisition process. It highlights the injustice inherent in the origin of the item or advantage in question. Think of money that's been earned from scams.

Ill-begotten meaning with examples

• The detective's investigation revealed the company's vast fortune was largely built on ill-begotten gains from exploiting its workers and evading environmental regulations. He discovered a trail of bribes, tax fraud, and unethical business practices stretching back decades, proving the foundations of their wealth were corrupt and tainted by the suffering of others. Their lavish lifestyle was a mockery of ethical business.
• The novel explores the tragic consequences of a family clinging to an estate built on ill-begotten land seized from indigenous peoples generations ago. The current generation grapples with the moral weight of their inheritance, facing guilt and societal pressure to rectify the past. The land, though beautiful, carried a curse of injustice, reflecting the historical wrongs.
• Despite his charitable donations, the philanthropist's reputation was forever stained by the disclosure of his ill-begotten wealth. The exposé revealed his fortune originated from a series of insider trading schemes and predatory lending practices that harmed countless investors and families. His attempts to gain social respect by donation were just a cover.
• The politician's campaign was funded by ill-begotten contributions from shadowy figures involved in organized crime. The public demanded transparency, questioning the legitimacy of his funding. The sources of this funding raised serious concerns about conflicts of interest and potential influence peddling, casting a shadow over his integrity.