conflict of interest
/ˈkɒnflɪkt ɒv ˈɪntrest/
Meaning
A 'conflict of interest' occurs when an individual's personal interests, relationships, or financial holdings could compromise their judgment, decisions, or actions in their professional role. It is a critical ethical concept in corporate governance, law, and journalism. The tone is formal, serious, and legally or ethically minded.
Examples
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As a board member, voting on a contract for your brother's company is a clear conflict of interest.
As a board member, voting on a contract for your brother's company is a clear conflict of interest.
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To avoid any potential conflict of interest, employees must disclose all outside business activities.
To avoid any potential conflict of interest, employees must disclose all outside business activities.
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The journalist recused himself from writing the story to prevent a conflict of interest.
The journalist recused himself from writing the story to prevent a conflict of interest.
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Awarding the government contract to his own firm created a major conflict of interest.
Awarding the government contract to his own firm created a major conflict of interest.
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Our company's code of conduct has strict guidelines regarding how to handle a conflict of interest.
Our company's code of conduct has strict guidelines regarding how to handle a conflict of interest.
Common Mistakes
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✗ He has a conflict of interests in this decision.
✓ He has a conflict of interest in this decision.
The standard idiom is singular: 'conflict of interest', even if multiple interests are involved.
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✗ She was accused of a conflict interest.
✓ She was accused of a conflict of interest.
Do not omit the preposition 'of' in the phrase 'conflict of interest'.
Related Expressions
Practice
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The judge stepped down from the case due to a potential ___.
💡 A situation where personal interests clash with professional duties.
Show answer
conflict of interest
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We must ensure there is no ___ when choosing our new supplier.
💡 Ethical compromise of professional objectivity.
Show answer
conflict of interest