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

How Trump policies may affect bond issuers Ethics experts note that while municipal debt generally presents a more remote conflict of interest than corporate stock, concerns sharpen when federal action directly targets an issuer. — Luke Fountain, CNBC, 29 Sep. 2026

After warnings from lawmakers about the conflict of interest, Kennedy agreed to amend his ethics agreement to divest his interest to his son. — Arkansas Online, 26 Sep. 2026

Lindsey, who serves on the party’s executive committee, has recused herself from voting on its selection to avoid a conflict of interest, according to the county. — Nora O'Neill, Charlotte Observer, 22 Sep. 2026

One of the members of the board was excluded from the vote after Humphreys’ defense team argued her role as an advocate for the victims’ families during Humphreys’ trial nearly 20 years ago created a conflict of interest. — Caleb Groves, AJC.com, 15 Sep. 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