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

Willis and Wade disputed accusations that their relationship created a conflict of interest. —Arkansas Online, 27 Nov. 2025

Hsiung’s return comes as Binder assumes leadership of an agency still recovering from a divisive period that culminated in Corpus’ removal by the Board of Supervisors last month over allegations of conflict of interest and retaliation. —Ryan MacAsero, Mercury News, 26 Nov. 2025

What feels harmless on your end might look like a conflict of interest on theirs. —Johnny C. Taylor Jr, USA Today, 25 Nov. 2025

This potential conflict of interest is likely a roadblock, considering WWE’s general policy on talent associated with rival promotions. —Andrew Ravens‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2025

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