[Vocabulary] Synonyms for "bribe"

[milan2003_07]

Hi,

There are many synonyms for the word "bribe". Some are formal and some are not. I'm now interested to learn colloquial words meaning "bribe". Recently I've heard about "backhander". How about other words? If possible, please give a sample sentence to see how the words suggested by you are used.

He tried to give him a backhander and shortly was detained by a policeman before long.

Is this sentence correct?

Best

 

[5jj]

We started giving the local law a sweetener from time to time; we haven't had any trouble since then.

You'll have to reckon on some pretty hefty pay-offs if you want to land that contract.

I think that the minister might require a little incentive to bring in that Bill.

 

[milan2003_07]

Thanks!!!

How about my sentence with "backhander"?

What do you think about "graft"?

 

[5jj]

He tried to give him a backhander and shortly was detained by a policeman before long.

Yes, as far as 'backhander' is concerned. We don't need both 'shortly' and 'before long'. Omit 'shortly'.

'Graft' refers to the general activity of corruption (especially bribery) rather than to individual bribes.

 

[SoothingDave]

Say I am a public official who decides who gets a contract. If I arrange to give you the contract only if you agree to pay some of the money to me, that money is known as a "kickback."

 

[milan2003_07]

Say I am a public official who decides who gets a contract. If I arrange to give you the contract only if you agree to pay some of the money to me, that money is known as a "kickback."

I think I've heard about "kickback", but, as you've said, kickback is given to person after some deal whereas bribes are usually given before you want to have something done for you. In other words, "kickback" is a bribe, but it's given after a deal, not before.

 

[Mehrgan]

Hi,
Also, I think some people take bungs!

 

[milan2003_07]

Hi,
Also, I think some people take bungs!

Well, yes, my Collins Cobuild dictionary showed that "bung" has the meaning of "bribe". It would be interesting to hear from natives how frequently this word is used nowadays.

 

[SoothingDave]

The only "bung" I know is the one in "bunghole" which is a comical euphemism for the rectum.

 

[milan2003_07]

The only "bung" I know is the one in "bunghole" which is a comical euphemism for the rectum.

OK, so does "bung" mean "bribe" for you in any context or this word in the suggested meaning is alien to AE speakers?

 

[5jj]

I had forgotten 'bung' until Mehrgan reminded me.

It was current in the UK when I left in 1998. I don't know about today - I am no longer made aware of the popular press. For this relief, much thanks.

 

[milan2003_07]

Thanks!!! Now I know that the word is really used. Great!!!

 

[SoothingDave]

OK, so does "bung" mean "bribe" for you in any context or this word in the suggested meaning is alien to AE speakers?

No, it's alien.

 

[riquecohen]

Thanks!!! Now I know that the word is really used. Great!!!

Not in AmE.