machination
/ˌmækɪˈneɪʃən/
NOUN
1. A secret or cunning scheme, usually intended to achieve an evil purpose
A carefully devised plan or plot, typically involving deception, manipulation, or conspiracy to gain an advantage, undermine someone, or accomplish a harmful or dishonest objective.
1.1. Conspiracy and secret plotting
Refers to a secret plan involving two or more people who cooperate to achieve an unlawful, harmful, or dishonest objective, often by concealing their intentions from others.
Synonyms
- conspiracy
- collusion
- confederacy
- cabal
- connivance
- complicity
- counterplot
- counterconspiracy
- intrigue
- plot
Antonyms
- frankness
- honesty
Examples
- Behind the scenes, a web of political machination aimed to manipulate public opinion.
- The historical drama revealed the royal court's dark machinations as various factions vied for power.
- The investigation uncovered a conspiracy involving several officials who had secretly coordinated their actions.
Related Words
- conspirator
- conspiracy
- collusion
- secret alliance
- treachery
- deception
- subterfuge
- intrigue
1.2. Deceptive schemes and manipulative tactics
Describes a cunning or dishonest arrangement designed to trick, mislead, exploit, or manipulate someone for personal or strategic advantage.
Synonyms
- artifice
- contrivance
- ploy
- ruse
- stratagem
- subterfuge
- trickery
- manipulation
- device
- gimmick
- dodge
- frame-up
- cover-up
- skullduggery
Antonyms
- frankness
- honesty
Examples
- The novel's plot unfolded with a complex machination that kept readers guessing until the end.
- The business executive used elaborate machinations to undermine a competing company.
- The entire arrangement was a clever machination designed to deceive unsuspecting investors.
Related Words
- deception
- duplicity
- fraud
- chicanery
- guile
- scheming
- dishonesty
- underhandedness
- manipulation
NOUN
2. The act or process of plotting and scheming
The activity of secretly devising, organizing, or carrying out calculated plans, particularly those involving manipulation, intrigue, or dishonest strategies.
2.1. Political and organizational maneuvering
Refers to the behind-the-scenes planning, strategic maneuvering, and manipulation of people or circumstances to obtain influence, maintain authority, or gain a competitive advantage.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- ignorance
- honesty
- frankness
Examples
- In the business world, corporate rivalries often involve intricate machinations to gain a competitive edge.
- The political machinations behind the leadership change remained hidden from the public.
- The novel explores the machinations of powerful officials competing for control of the government.
Related Words
- political maneuvering
- power struggle
- realpolitik
- manipulation
- calculation
- tactics
- strategy
- rivalry
- statecraft