payola

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Word: Payola

Definition:Payola is a noun that refers to money or gifts given to someone, especially a disc jockey (DJ), to persuade them to promote a specific song or record. This practice is often considered unethical or illegal because it can influence what music gets played on the radio without the audience knowing about it.

Advanced Usage:

In a broader sense, payola can refer to any situation where a bribe is given to influence someone's actions, not just in music.

Different Meanings:

While "payola" specifically refers to bribery in the music industry, it can also be informally used to describe any sort of unfair advantage gained through bribery in other contexts.

Synonyms:

• Bribe
• Kickback
• Inducement
• Incentive (though this can have a more positive connotation)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Under the table": This idiom means to do something secretly or illegally, often related to payments.

  • Example: "They were paying the DJ under the table to play their songs."

• "Grease someone's palm": This phrase means to bribe someone.

  • Example: "They tried to grease the palm of the radio station manager to get more airtime."

Summary:

Payola is a term associated with bribery in the music industry, particularly involving DJs and radio stations.

Academic

Noun

1. a bribe given to a disc jockey to induce him to promote a particular record