John Paul Jones

It is to the last degree distressing to contemplate the state and establishment of our navy... unless the private emolument of individuals in our navy is made superior to that in privateers, it never can become respectable; it never will become formidable. And without a respectable navy - alas, America!

American Soldier

Heather Cox Richardson

The same Republicans who had threatened to impeach Hillary Clinton remained silent when, immediately after his surprise victory, Trump refused to abide by laws about emoluments or nepotism, openly profiting from the presidency and filling the White House with personal relatives.

American Historian

Rashida Tlaib

The emoluments clause is in the Constitution for a reason: We, as Americans, need to know that the president acts in our best interests, not his own self-interest.

American Politician

Emolument implies a rightful earning from your job or services offered.

Legitimate Earnings

'Emolument' includes all forms of work compensation, not just basic salary.

Beyond Salary

Emolument is formal and less common today; 'salary' or 'wages' are more usual.

Formal and Dated

Emolument can suggest improper earnings, often in a legal or political context.

Negative Implication

Use 'emolument' with care as it may imply corruption, especially if undisclosed or unlawful.

Watch for Illegality

Often associated with the benefits from holding a position or office, not just any job.