Venal

Adjective; characterized by, or susceptible to, bribery or corruption. A venal person is one who can be bought, engaging in dishonest or unethical behavior in exchange for money or personal gain. The term often has a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of integrity or moral principles, and is commonly used in discussions about politics, business, and other areas where ethical standards are vital.

Venal meaning with examples

• In the novel, the protagonist must navigate a complex legal system rife with venal officials who prioritize personal gain over justice, reflecting the challenges faced by many who seek to challenge systemic corruption.
• The investigation revealed a venal arrangement between the city's public works department and a construction company, illustrating how easily ethical boundaries can be crossed when financial incentives are involved.
• At the press conference, the senator condemned the venal behavior of his colleagues and pledged to restore integrity to the political process, hoping to inspire a wave of reform in government practices.
• Teachers are expected to instill values in their students, yet when a venal administrator is caught accepting bribes for passing grades, it undermines the entire educational system and damages public trust.
• The documentary exposed venal practices in the pharmaceutical industry, where profits took precedence over patient welfare, prompting a public outcry for stricter regulations to ensure ethical conduct.