Connivance: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to the act of allowing or secretly helping to do something wrong or illegal. This term often implies passive acceptance or silent approval.

• The manager's connivance in the scam was exposed during the investigation.
• Their connivance with the corrupt officials led to the company's downfall.

Appropriate for situations where there is a secret or illegal cooperation or conspiracy, especially to cheat or deceive others. It often involves multiple parties working together dishonestly.

• There was evidence of collusion between the company executives and government officials.
• The lawyers were accused of collusion to manipulate the outcome of the trial.

Best used when someone is involved with others in an illegal activity or wrongdoing. It emphasizes a shared responsibility.

• Her complicity in the robbery was proven by the security footage.
• The CEO denied any complicity in the fraudulent schemes.

Fits scenarios where there is a secret plan made by a group to do something unlawful or harmful. It suggests an organized and deliberate effort.

• The conspiracy to overthrow the government was foiled by the police.
• He was charged with conspiracy to commit fraud.