Basic Details
Word: Embezzlement
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: The act of secretly taking money or property that belongs to someone else, especially an employer, for one's own use.
Synonyms: Theft, misappropriation, fraud
Antonyms: Honesty, integrity, trustworthiness
Idioms and Phrases
- Penny for your thoughts: Asking someone what they are thinking, often when they seem preoccupied. Example: "You've been quiet for a while, a penny for your thoughts on the embezzlement case."
- Playing with fire: Engaging in risky behaviour that could lead to trouble. Example: "He was playing with fire when he started embezzlement; it would only lead to serious consequences."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The accountant was caught embezzlement funds from the company's accounts over several years.
Example 2: Embezzlement can lead to severe legal penalties and a loss of trust in the workplace.
Example 3: The investigation revealed a complex scheme of embezzlement that shocked the entire community.
Fun Fact
Interestingly, the word "embezzle" comes from the Middle English word "besumblem," which means to take away for oneself. It refers to a betrayal of trust, often by someone in a position of responsibility.
Famous Quote
"The greatest way to betray your trust is to embezzle the money that was given to you to manage." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "embezzlement" mean?
a) Giving money away
b) Taking money secretly for oneself
c) Sharing wealth equally
d) Earning money through hard work
Answer: b) Taking money secretly for oneself
2. Which of these is a synonym of "embezzlement"?
a) Honesty
b) Theft
c) Generosity
d) Charity
Answer: b) Theft
3. Which of these is an antonym of "embezzlement"?
a) Fraud
b) Misappropriation
c) Integrity
d) Theft
Answer: c) Integrity
4. Which sentence uses "embezzlement" correctly?
a) His embezzlement became the highlight of the event.
b) The company faced embezzlement due to poor management.
c) She embezzlement a beautiful painting for her home.
d) They embezzlement helped the fundraising project.
Answer: b) The company faced embezzlement due to poor management.
5. What does "playing with fire" imply in relation to embezzlement?
a) It means to embrace danger
b) It means to enjoy some fun
c) It means to save money
d) It means to start a fire
Answer: a) It means to embrace danger
