What is the definition of "bribery"?

Bribery is accurately defined as the act of offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value to influence the actions of an individual in a position of authority. This definition captures the essence of bribery, which involves the exchange of value to manipulate decision-making or behavior in an illicit manner.

Bribery encompasses various actions where the intent is to sway someone’s judgment or conduct, especially in official capacities or legal matters. It involves both the person who offers or gives the bribe and the person who accepts or solicits it, highlighting the two-way nature of the offense.

The other definitions provided do not fully encapsulate the legal implications of bribery. For instance, while offering money for a service may imply a transaction, it doesn't necessarily mean that it is intended to influence an action unlawfully. Similarly, a payment made for information could potentially be considered as a bribe, but it lacks the broader context of influencing actions. Lastly, framing bribery as a form of gift-giving among friends trivializes its serious nature and legal consequences, as it suggests a benign intention rather than the manipulative purpose of bribes. Thus, the chosen definition covers the comprehensive nature of bribery in a legal context.