Skip to content

Machtmissbrauch

abuse of power

noun MAKHT-mis-browkh Rare

Usage Note

Machtmissbrauch is the misuse of an official's authority for personal gain, partisan advantage, or unlawful purposes. It is a charge in both political debates and administrative law. When proven, it can lead to disciplinary proceedings (Disziplinarverfahren) or criminal charges.

Examples

"Der Bürgermeister stand wegen Machtmissbrauchs unter Druck."

Natural Translation

The mayor was under pressure due to abuse of power.

Literal Translation

The mayor stood because-of power-abuse under pressure.

Free starter pack

Building your German vocabulary?

Get the 100 most common German words as a free PDF — one email, no spam.

Explore German by topic