Here's a breakdown:
* Close friend or companion: It emphasizes the closeness of the relationship, often implying a long-standing friendship.
* Dishonest or unethical activities: This aspect is what makes "crony" a negative term. It suggests that the friendship is used for personal gain, often at the expense of others.
Examples of "cronyism" in use:
* "The mayor was accused of cronyism after awarding lucrative contracts to his close friends."
* "The company was criticized for its culture of cronyism, where promotions were based on personal connections rather than merit."
Key points about the term "crony":
* It carries a negative connotation, implying favoritism and unfair advantages.
* It is often used in a political context to describe individuals who are favored or rewarded for their loyalty, regardless of their qualifications.
* It can also be used in a broader sense to describe any close friendship that involves questionable or unethical behavior.
In summary, a "crony" is a close friend involved in questionable or unethical activities with another person, often for personal gain.