This paper examines definitions of Chinese corruption. While many Chinese corruption
studies have argued that Chinese corruption has its own unique features, our review of
definitions of Chinese corruption featured in current academic literature reveals that most
definitions in use are similar to the general definition of corruption: abuse of public office for
private gains. Valuable as it is, such a general definition does not adequately specify the
actors, behavior and motives in Chinese corruption. This paper argues that actors in Chinese
corruption are not limited to employees in the public sector but also include any Chinese state
functionary engaging in public activities. In addition, corrupt behavior refers to both
economic (embezzlement, misappropriation of public funds, and bribery) and disciplinary
corruption (violation of social norms and the dereliction of duty) that are damaging to public
interests. In doing so, this paper finds that even behavior such as the dereliction of duty and
violations of social norms, that is not motivated by private gain, is regarded as corruption in
China. We also discuss the political nature of this broadly defined Chinese corruption.