power abuse
Corrupt control wielded
Power abuse is the misuse of authority or influence for personal gain, to harm others, or beyond legitimate boundaries.
It encompasses exploitation by those in positions of trust—bosses, officials, clergy, partners: The investigation revealed systematic power abuse within the department.
The phrase emphasizes that the abuse stems specifically from an imbalance of power rather than physical force alone.
- tyrannyOppressive, absolute governance
- gaslightingManipulation causing self-doubt
- corruptionDishonest abuse of power
- harassmentAggressive, unwanted targeting
- intimidationDeliberate fear-inducing pressure
hostile work environment · oppression · coercion · cronyism · exploitation · despotism · guilt-tripping · manipulation · authoritarianism · bullying · wrongful conviction · dictatorship · nepotism · conflict of interest · cover up · quid pro quo · fearmongering · invalidation
- abusemistreatment, maltreatment, cruelty, neglect, violence
- exploitationexploit, predatory, sex trafficking, take advantage, human trafficking
- social critiquesocial injustice, inequality, expose, muckraking, polemic
- workplace conflictbullying, harassment, hostile environment, intimidation, mobbing
- church scandalscover-up, cover-ups, coverups, sexual misconduct, molestation
- harassmentstalking, groping, catcalling, threats, cyberstalking
power abusegood governance
Accountable, transparent institutional management
servant leadership · moral leadership · democratic accountability · due process · rule of law
power abuseempowerment
Gaining authority or confidence
egalitarianism · power sharing · consent · checks and balances · democratic accountability
power abusefiduciary duty
Obligation to act loyally
public service · duty of care · professional ethics · trustworthiness · good faith