YOUR VOCABULARY, ONE WORD AT A TIME
venal
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UNDERSTAND THE WORD
Meaning in plain English
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Pronunciation
venal/ˈviːnl/
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PICTURE THE IDEA
See the meaning
A bribe is offered in a fictional story
An official agrees to act dishonestly
SEE IT IN EVERYDAY ENGLISH
Examples in context
Read the examples aloud. Notice how the word fits the sentence, then think of a situation of your own.
- The thriller features a venal official who sells information to criminals.
- The essay contrasts the venal judge with the principled witness.
MAKE IT STICK
Quick word quiz
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Can you recall the word?
Complete the example using the word from this lesson.
The thriller features a ________ official who sells information to criminals.
Show the answer
venal — Willing to act dishonestly in exchange for money or personal gain.
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Make it yours
Write one sentence using “venal” about your own life.
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Willing to act dishonestly in exchange for money or personal gain.
Compare: The thriller features a venal official who sells information to criminals.
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Word origin
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