Wrongdoing: meaning, definitions and examples

General term for any action that is considered morally or legally wrong.

• The company was accused of wrongdoing in its financial dealings
• His wrongdoing was discovered by the authorities

Refers to unacceptable or improper behavior, especially by someone in a position of authority or trust.

• The teacher was fired for professional misconduct
• The CEO was involved in corporate misconduct

Specifically refers to improper, unethical, or negligent behavior by a professional, like a doctor or a lawyer.

• The doctor was sued for medical malpractice
• The lawyer faced disciplinary actions for malpractice

A general term for any bad or wicked action, often less severe than a crime.

• He regretted his misdeed and apologized to everyone involved
• The politician's misdeeds eventually came to light

General term for any kind of immoral or illegal act.

• The CEO was accused of serious wrongdoing
• The committee is investigating allegations of wrongdoing

Refers to improper or unacceptable behavior, most commonly used when talking about children or in less formal situations.

• The teacher didn't tolerate any misbehavior in her classroom
• The player's misbehavior led to a penalty

Usually refers to a violation of a moral or ethical principle, often with a strong connotation of wrongdoing.

• His transgression against the laws of the company led to his dismissal
• The story focuses on the character's transgression and quest for redemption

Used when referring to a breach of law or a rule; can imply legal consequences. Often used in legal contexts.

• He committed a serious traffic offense
• Lying under oath is considered a criminal offense