Colluding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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colluding
[kəˈl(j)uːdɪŋ ]
Definition
conspiracy
To act together secretly to achieve a fraudulent or illegal purpose; conspire.
Synonyms
connive, conspire, plot, scheme.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| conspire |
This word is used when people secretly plan together to do something harmful or illegal. It often appears in legal, political, or theatrical contexts, and it has a negative connotation.
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| plot |
Used when referring to a secret plan to accomplish something, usually harmful or illegal. It is common in political, historical, or narrative contexts and can be negative.
|
| scheme |
This word often refers to a clever and sometimes dishonest plan to achieve something. It can be used in both casual and formal contexts and frequently has a negative connotation, but not always.
|
| connive |
This word suggests secretly allowing something bad or illegal to happen. It often implies a degree of passive complicity rather than active participation. It's generally negative.
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Examples of usage
- The two companies were colluding to fix prices in the market.
- The politicians were accused of colluding with foreign powers to influence the election.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Law
- In legal terms, colluding often refers to two or more parties working together to deceive or defraud others.
- Examples include collusive bidding in auctions, where participants secretly agree to suppress competition.
Politics
- Collusion is frequently referenced in political discussions, especially during investigations into campaign practices.
- Controversies around collusion often lead to public debates about ethics and transparency in governance.
Pop Culture
- Movies and TV shows often depict characters colluding to commit heists or engage in espionage, highlighting secretive teamwork.
- A famous example is 'Ocean's Eleven,' which features characters working together to pull off a big con.
Psychology
- Studies suggest that collusion can occur in social settings where individuals feel pressured to conform to the group's dishonest actions.
- The concept of social responsibility is often challenged by collusive behavior, as it raises questions about moral judgment.
Origin of 'colluding'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'colludere,' meaning 'to play together,' implying cooperation for a common purpose.
- It began to take on a negative connotation in the late 19th century as its use increased in legal contexts.
The word 'colluding' originates from the Latin word 'colludere', which means 'to play together'. Over time, the meaning evolved to include acting together secretly for a deceitful purpose. The concept of collusion has been present throughout history in various forms, from political conspiracies to business fraud. The term gained prominence in legal and ethical discussions related to antitrust laws and corruption investigations.