Selling out

Common card · No. 318561

To "sell out" is to compromise one's integrity, morality, authenticity, or principles in exchange for personal gain, such as money or power. In terms of music or art, selling out is associated with attempts to tailor material to a mainstream or commercial audience. For example, a musician who alters their material to encompass a wider audience, and in turn generates greater revenue, may be labeled by fans who pre-date the change as a "sellout". People who take well-paying jobs that involve ethically questionable activities, especially jobs that prop up the status quo, can also be accused of "selling out". "Sellout" also refers to someone who gives up, or disregards someone or something for some other thing or person.

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