sharp practice
sharp practice (idiom)
/ˌʃɑːrp ˈpræk.tɪs/
Meaning
- A way of behaving in business that is dishonest but not illegal.
- Crafty or deceitful dealings, especially in business.
- An act of dealing in which advantage is taken or sought unscrupulously.
- Actions by a lawyer using misleading statements to opposing counsel or the court, denial of oral stipulations previously made, or employing other tactics to gain an advantage.
- Sneaky or cunning behavior that is technically within the rules of the law but borders on being unethical.
Example Sentences
- The contractor’s sharp practice left the homeowners with unexpected costs.
- The lawyer was reprimanded for engaging in sharp practice during the trial.
- Consumers should be aware of sharp practice in the marketplace.
- The company’s reputation suffered due to allegations of sharp practice.
- Regulators are cracking down on sharp practice in the financial sector.
Origin and History
The phrase “sharp practice” refers to actions that, while legally permissible, are ethically dubious and often involve cunning or deceitful tactics to gain an advantage. This term is predominantly used in legal and business contexts to describe behavior that skirts the boundaries of ethical conduct. Understanding its origin provides insight into how language evolves to encapsulate societal attitudes toward morality and legality.
Earliest Recorded Usage
The earliest documented use of “sharp practice” dates back to 1836. This timing suggests that the term emerged during a period of significant economic and industrial expansion, where competitive pressures may have led to ethically questionable business tactics.
Etymological Roots
The adjective “sharp” has been used since the 17th century to describe individuals who are astute or keen-minded. Over time, this connotation extended to depict those employing their acumen in morally ambiguous ways. The term “sharp” in “sharp practice” embodies this duality, highlighting both intelligence and the potential for unethical behavior.
Theories on Origin
One theory posits that “sharp practice” originated in the business world of the 18th-century Industrial Revolution. During this era, rapid industrialization and economic growth created an environment where competitive pressures led some individuals and businesses to adopt ethically questionable practices to gain an advantage.
Legal Context and Usage
In legal parlance, “sharp practice” describes actions by lawyers or parties that, while not outright illegal, are considered unethical. For instance, the Supreme Court of Canada has addressed instances of “sharp dealing,” cautioning against taking undue advantage of oversights by opposing parties.
This usage underscores the term’s role in delineating the fine line between legal permissibility and ethical responsibility.
Synonyms
- Deception; trickery; chicanery; fraud; duplicity; double-dealing; deceit; dishonesty; swindling; misrepresentation.
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