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Basic Formal IVT Commonly tested

Conflict of Interest Statement

noun

Pronunciation: /ˈkɒnflɪkt əv ˈɪntrɪst ˈsteɪtmənt/

A formal declaration submitted by authors, reviewers, and editors disclosing financial, personal, or professional relationships that could bias their judgment. This statement is essential for maintaining research integrity and transparency in the peer review process.

Plain English

A written declaration of any relationships or interests that might affect someone's impartiality in publishing.

Etymology & History

Origin languageLatin, Germanic
Rootconflict (confligere - to strike together); interest (interesse - to concern); statement (statim - standing forth)
First recorded use1990s
Usage frequencyVery common

Usage

"All authors must complete the conflict of interest statement form, disclosing funding sources and professional affiliations."

Style guide notes: Always capitalize 'Conflict of Interest' as a proper journal section heading.

Also known as

COI declaration disclosure statement competing interests statement

Contrasted with

confidential statement undisclosed affiliation

Related Terms

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as a conflict of interest in publishing?

Financial ties, employment relationships, personal connections, stock ownership, and intellectual interests related to research.

Are 'no conflicts' statements required?

Yes, journals require explicit declaration even when authors have no conflicts to maintain transparency standards.

Why Test Candidates on This?

Critical for evaluating understanding of research ethics and editorial compliance.

Required skill level: Junior

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