conflict of interest

noun phrase

: a conflict between the private interests and the official responsibilities of a person in a position of trust

Examples of conflict of interest in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The president’s second term has included a series of unprecedented, massive financial gains that have drawn criticisms of conflict of interest. — John Towfighi, CNN Money, 16 July 2026

The suit also points out that Barros allegedly disclosed the conflict of interest with the State Ethics Commission just one day before the bid was awarded. — Tim Dunn, Boston Herald, 15 July 2026

If confirmed, she’s promised to resign from UnitedHealth and the boards of two other healthcare companies to avoid a conflict of interest. — Tia Mitchell, AJC.com, 15 July 2026

Poor due diligence in executive hiring, exemplified by Kohl's firing of CEO Ashley Buchanan for conflict of interest, can cause significant financial and reputational damage. — Edward Segal, Forbes.com, 11 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1860, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for conflict of interest

• noninterest

Legal Definition

conflict of interest

con·​flict of interest

ˈkän-ˌflikt-

1

: a conflict between the private interests and the official or professional responsibilities of a person in a position of trust

2

: a conflict between competing duties (as in an attorney's representation of clients with adverse interests) see also ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct