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Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing

embezzlement

noun / im-BEZ-uhl-muhnt / Medium
Meaning

The fraudulent taking of money or property by a person to whom it has been entrusted.

Origin / Etymology

From Anglo-Norman French 'embesiler' (to steal, make away with), later reinforced by 'bezzle' (to squander).

Synonyms
misappropriation defalcation peculation pilferage
Antonyms
restitution reimbursement honesty stewardship
Example Sentence
"The audit revealed large-scale embezzlement of welfare funds meant for tribal development schemes."
🎯 UPSC Usage

Relevant to GS Paper 2 on governance and accountability, GS Paper 3 on economic offences, and GS Paper 4 on financial probity. Cite it in discussions of CAG audits, the Prevention of Corruption Act, and leakages in public expenditure that Direct Benefit Transfer seeks to plug.

Relevant Subjects
Economy
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