ENGLISH
REFERENCE

wrongdoing

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɹɔŋduɪŋ// UK //ɹˈɒŋduːˌɪŋ// wrong·do·ing

n. behavior that is illegal, dishonest, or morally wrong. You use this word when someone breaks a rule or a law.

n. illegal, dishonest, or unethical behavior. Often used in legal or formal contexts to describe actions that violate established codes of conduct.


SIMPLE

The investigation found no evidence of wrongdoing.

CONTEXTUAL

The company fired the manager after several employees reported his financial wrongdoing to the board.

COMPLEX

While the audit did not uncover criminal activity, it highlighted several instances of administrative wrongdoing that suggested a systemic lack of oversight.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English wrong doyng, wrong doynge, wrong doinge, equivalent to wrong + doing.

Usage

Typically used in the singular as an abstract concept; when referring to specific acts, 'wrongdoings' is possible but less common.

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