Corrupting: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to the act of morally or ethically degrading someone or something.

• The influence of the power-hungry leader was corrupting the young politicians.
• Exposure to such material can have a corrupting effect on children.

Used when something has been spoiled, damaged, or corrupted, typically in a non-physical sense but can apply to physical contamination as well.

• The scandal tainted his reputation.
• The wine was tainted by a strange odor.

Better suited for describing the physical act of making something impure or harmful, especially in the context of chemicals, pollutants, or infectious agents.

• The river was contaminated with toxic waste.
• Food left out too long can become contaminated with bacteria.

Describes the act of distorting or misusing something in a way that goes against its original purpose. It often has a strong negative connotation.

• The dictator perverted the legal system to suppress dissent.
• The author was upset that his words had been perverted for political gain.

Used when talking about reducing the quality or value of something, often in terms of moral or artistic standards.

• The government was accused of debasing the currency.
• Reality TV shows are often said to debase cultural and intellectual standards.