rake-off
/'reik,ɔ:f/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A rake-off is a share, percentage, or commission taken from a sum of money, especially from profits, winnings, or illicit gains. It often implies the money is taken unfairly, secretly, or by someone in a position of control, such as an organizer, middleman, or criminal.
Usage
The word rake-off is typically used in informal or business contexts to describe a cut of money. It often carries a negative connotation, suggesting the share is taken as a bribe, kickback, or unfair commission. - It is commonly used with verbs like get, take, receive, or demand. - It often follows prepositions like as a or in.
Examples
- The corrupt official demanded a rake-off from the construction contract.
- The gang leader took a hefty rake-off from all the illegal gambling profits.
- How much of a rake-off do the promoters get from ticket sales?
- He was accused of receiving a rake-off for steering business to the supplier.
Advanced Usage
- As a percentage rake-off: Specifying the share as a percentage.
- His payment was a 10% rake-off of all net profits.
- Implicit in transactions: Used to describe a hidden or understood cut.
- In that industry, everyone expects a small rake-off to facilitate the deal.
Variants and Related Words
- Kickback (n): A sum of money paid illegally to someone in return for a favor or service, especially in business or politics. This is a very close synonym.
- Commission (n): A payment to an agent for services, typically a percentage of the value involved. This is the neutral, legitimate equivalent.
- Cut (n): (Informal) A share of the profits. ()
- Share (n): A part of a larger amount which is divided among people.
Synonyms
- Percentage
- Slice (informal)
- Piece of the action (idiomatic)
Related Phrases
- To get/take a rake-off: The standard phrase for receiving this share.
- He was suspected of taking a rake-off on every deal.
- A rake-off scheme: Describing an arrangement built on taking such shares.
- The investigation uncovered a complex rake-off scheme within the department.
Related Idioms
- On the take: (Idiom) Willingly accepting bribes or illicit payments. A person "on the take" is likely receiving rake-offs.
- Several politicians were found to be on the take.
- Grease someone's palm: (Idiom) To bribe someone. The bribe itself could be considered a rake-off.
- You might have to grease a few palms to get that permit.
Noun
- a percentage (of winnings or loot or profit) taken by an operator or gangster