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kleptocracy
Kleptocracy (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology
IPA:
What does kleptocracy mean?
A form of government where the rulers use their political power to steal and amass wealth at the expense of the state and its people.
"The kleptocracy siphoned off funds meant for public infrastructure."
Detailed Meaning of Kleptocracy
It is a system where the ruling class uses public resources and positions of power to enrich themselves, often through corruption and embezzlement of public funds. Kleptocrats typically use their control over the government to maintain their power and protect their wealth, often through repression and restriction of civil liberties. As a result, kleptocracies tend to have weak institutions, widespread poverty, and a lack of accountability for those in power. The term "kleptocracy" is a combination of the Greek words "klepto," meaning to steal, and "kratos," meaning power or rule.
Example Sentences for Kleptocracy
1. Kleptocracy thrives when leaders prioritize personal gain over public welfare.
2. Citizens suffer under the weight of a corrupt kleptocracy.
3. In a kleptocracy, officials plunder state resources shamelessly.
4. Kleptocracy erodes trust in government and fosters inequality.
5. The kleptocracy's greed knows no bounds, impoverishing the nation.
6. Transparency and accountability are essential to combat kleptocracy.
Origin and Etymology of Kleptocracy
The noun 'kleptocracy' has its etymological roots in Greek. It is formed by combining 'klepto,' which means 'to steal,' and 'kratos,' meaning 'rule' or 'power.' Therefore, 'kleptocracy' can be understood as 'rule by thieves' or 'a system of government where stealing and amassing wealth is the primary objective of those in power.' While not a term with ancient origins, 'kleptocracy' has become increasingly relevant in modern political discourse, particularly in the context of governments characterized by corruption and the misuse of public resources for personal gain. Its etymology reflects the idea of rulers using their political authority to engage in theft and the appropriation of wealth, often to the detriment of the state and its citizens.
Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding
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More Usage Examples of Kleptocracy
1. Many nations struggle to break free from the grip of kleptocracy.
2. Corruption scandals expose the true face of a kleptocracy.
3. Kleptocracy's legacy is one of economic ruin and social unrest.
4. The international community condemns the rise of kleptocracy.
5. Building a just society requires dismantling the walls of kleptocracy.
6. The country was ruled by a corrupt kleptocracy for decades.
7. Under the oppressive kleptocracy, the nation's wealth was plundered by a few elites.
8. The citizens protested against the kleptocracy's rampant corruption.
9. International organizations condemned the government's descent into kleptocracy.
10. The kleptocracy's leaders lived lavish lifestyles while their people suffered.
11. Journalists worked tirelessly to expose the extent of the kleptocracy's corruption.
12. The rise of the kleptocracy led to economic decline and social unrest.
13. Political opposition to the kleptocracy was met with repression and violence.
14. The international community imposed sanctions on the kleptocratic regime.
15. The kleptocracy's leader amassed a vast personal fortune through illicit means.
16. The country's resources were systematically looted by the kleptocracy.
17. The kleptocracy's downfall was celebrated as a victory for democracy.
18. Corruption was endemic in the government, a hallmark of the kleptocracy.
19. Transparency and accountability were absent in the kleptocratic regime.
20. The kleptocracy's greed knew no bounds as it exploited the nation's natural resources.
21. Citizens longed for a government that would replace the kleptocracy with fairness and justice.
22. The kleptocracy's actions eroded public trust in the government.
23. Investigations into the kleptocracy's financial crimes were underway.
24. International efforts aimed to recover the stolen assets of the kleptocracy.
Synonyms and Related Words for Kleptocracy
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✔ Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.
✔ All-in-one dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.
✔ 147 categorized lessons, 428 practical activities, 632 pages.
✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.
✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT