wrongdoing
UK: ˈrɒŋduːɪŋ | US: ˈrɔːŋduːɪŋ
n. an act that is illegal, immoral, or unjust
n. behavior or action that violates laws or ethical standards
The word "wrongdoing" combines "wrong" (from Old English wrang, meaning "twisted, unjust") and "doing" (from Old English dōn, meaning "to act"). The term emerged in Middle English to describe unjust or immoral actions, reflecting a clear moral judgment embedded in its structure. The pairing of "wrong" + "doing" logically conveys the concept of an unethical or illegal act.
The committee investigated allegations of wrongdoing by the official.
She was fired for repeated wrongdoing in the workplace.
The company denied any wrongdoing in the scandal.
Legal consequences often follow serious wrongdoing.
He admitted his wrongdoing and apologized publicly.