Crony: meaning, definitions and examples
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crony
[ ˈkroʊni ]
political favoritism
A crony is a close friend or companion, often implying favoritism or preferential treatment, particularly in a political context. This term is frequently used to describe individuals who have gained power, wealth, or privilege through their association with someone influential, rather than through merit or ability. Cronyism is generally viewed negatively, as it suggests corruption or unfairness in the distribution of resources, opportunities, or rewards. The concept encompasses a variety of relationships that may exist within government, business, or social circles.
Synonyms
associate, buddy, comrade, confidant, pal
Examples of usage
- The mayor appointed his cronies to key positions in the city government.
- They were accused of cronyism, which led to a scandal that tarnished their reputations.
- Many voters are frustrated with the crony system that benefits only a select few.
- The business world is often rife with crony relationships that undermine competition.
Translations
Translations of the word "crony" in other languages:
🇵🇹 camarada
- afilhado
- protegido
🇮🇳 गुटबाज़
🇩🇪 Freund
- Gefolgsmann
- Vetternwirtschaft
🇮🇩 kroni
- teman dekat
- orang dalam
🇺🇦 сват
- кум
- близький товариш
🇵🇱 kroni
- znajomy
- protegowany
🇯🇵 縁故者
- 仲間
- お仲間
🇫🇷 piston
- protégé
- copain
🇪🇸 compinche
- amigo del alma
- protegido
🇹🇷 yandaş
- dost
- adam
🇰🇷 친구
- 측근
- 아는 사람
🇸🇦 مقرب
- صديق
- موالي
🇨🇿 krony
- známý
- chráněnec
🇸🇰 kroni
- kamarát
- chránenec
🇨🇳 小圈子
- 朋党
- 亲密朋友
🇸🇮 kroni
- prijatelj
- varovanec
🇮🇸 vinur
- tengili
- verndari
🇰🇿 досар
- жақын дос
- сенімді адам
🇬🇪 კრონი
- მეგობარი
- მფარველი
🇦🇿 dost
- tanış
- himayəçi
🇲🇽 cuate
- compadre
- protegido
Etymology
The term 'crony' originates from the late 17th century and is derived from the dialectical form of the word 'cronies,' which means 'a close friend' or 'companion.' It is believed to come from the Scottish word 'cron,' which means 'a close companion' or 'dear friend.' The term gained a more negative connotation in the 20th century, particularly in political and business contexts, where it came to refer to favoritism shown to friends or associates, especially in situations involving corruption or unethical behavior. As politics and business became increasingly intertwined, 'crony' became associated with the idea of cronyism, leading to widespread public scrutiny of relationships formed through personal connections rather than merit. Today, 'crony' implies not just friendship but also a network of influence that can lead to abuse of power and resources.