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

These requirements provide transparency, but disclosure does not eliminate a conflict of interest. — Sean Stein Smith, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026

Jackson County Sheriff Darryl Forte said after the ouster that a criminal investigation will follow Abarca’s allegations, though the investigation will be undertaken by a third party to avoid conflict of interest. — Ilana Arougheti july 21, Kansas City Star, 21 July 2026

Najmi’s dual role as a lawyer practicing before city judges and as chair of the screening committee creates at least the appearance of a conflict of interest that undermines the very purpose of the committee’s existence. — Christian Browne, New York Daily News, 18 July 2026

Barros himself disclosed a conflict of interest with the State Ethics Commission just a day before the bid was awarded, according to the suit. — Boston Herald Editorial Staff, Boston Herald, 17 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