abuse of authority
Exploiting official position
Abuse of authority is the misuse of power by someone in a position of trust or control—a supervisor, official, or institution acting beyond legitimate bounds or for improper purposes.
The phrase typically describes conduct that exploits a power imbalance: The investigation found widespread abuse of authority in the department.
It encompasses harassment, retaliation, favoritism, and using one's position for personal gain rather than its intended function.
- dishonestyDisposition toward falsehood
- corruptionDishonest abuse of power
- coercionPressured compliance through threats
- nepotismPreferring kin in hiring
- playing favoritesTreating some preferentially
discrimination · bribery · manipulation · pulling rank · dereliction of duty · hypocrisy · malfeasance · overreach · above the law · gaslighting · hostile work environment · exploitation · inequality · intimidation · undue influence · cronyism · marginalization · injustice
- military offensesdesertion, insubordination, mutiny, AWOL, absence without leave
- political scandalsWatergate, Iran-Contra, Whitewater, Teapot Dome, coverup
- police misconductpolice brutality, excessive force, brutality, misconduct, false arrest
abuse of authoritygood governance
Accountable, transparent institutional management
abuse of authorityservant leadership
Leading through service first
empowerment · stewardship · mentorship · duty of care · guardianship
abuse of authoritychecks and balances
Constitutional power-limiting framework
accountability · transparency · self-restraint · democratic accountability · limited government
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