embezzlement

word

Definition

The act of secretly taking money or property that one is responsible for, usually from a job or organization, for personal use.

Usage & Nuances

A formal, legal term mostly used in business, law, or news. Refers specifically to theft by someone trusted with responsibility, unlike 'theft' or 'robbery.' Collocates: 'charged with embezzlement,' 'case of embezzlement,' 'embezzlement scheme.'

Example Sentences

He was arrested for embezzlement from his company.

basic

Embezzlement is a serious crime in most countries.

basic

She lost her job after being accused of embezzlement.

basic

The company's collapse was partly due to a massive embezzlement scheme by the CFO.

natural

After months of investigation, the police uncovered a network of embezzlement across several departments.

natural

He denied any involvement in the embezzlement, but the evidence was overwhelming.

natural