Sleaze

Sleaze refers to a quality of moral corruption, depravity, or sordidness, often associated with unethical behavior, particularly in the realms of politics, media, or business. It implies a degree of vulgarity, seediness, and a disregard for ethical standards or social norms. The term frequently evokes a sense of scandal, dishonesty, and exploitation. sleaze often involves underhanded dealings, questionable practices, or the revelation of scandalous information intended to damage someone's reputation. The term is also applied to low-quality or tawdry materials and places, signifying degradation or decline. Ultimately, sleaze is about a decay of moral values, a descent into impropriety, and a willingness to engage in behaviors that are generally considered reprehensible.

Sleaze meaning with examples

• The politician's campaign was marred by allegations of financial sleaze, with reports surfacing about unreported donations and shady business dealings. His opponents used these revelations to undermine his integrity, which ultimately cost him a re-election bid. The voters were disgusted by the constant accusations that were surfacing, with many claiming it eroded their trust in him.
• Tabloid journalism frequently thrives on sleaze, publishing salacious stories about celebrities and public figures. The aim is to create a sensationalized narrative, using scandalous details to grab the attention of the public and boost sales. The publications are often criticized for their invasive nature.
• The rundown hotel room, with its peeling paint and stained carpets, exuded an atmosphere of sleaze and neglect. Its seedy location and the questionable characters often loitering nearby further contributed to this perception. Visitors were warned beforehand.
• The company's aggressive marketing tactics, which included misleading advertising and exploitative sales practices, were seen as blatant sleaze. This damaged their image and made the brand a target for both ethical criticism and legal investigation.
• Following a wave of scandals, the government promised to clean up the rampant sleaze that was said to plague the administration. They initiated new regulations, aiming to enforce transparency and accountability across all departments, hoping to recover public trust.