Conniving Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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conniving
[kəˈnaɪvɪŋ ]
Definitions
scheming
Given to or involved in conspiring to do something immoral, illegal, or harmful.
Synonyms
calculating, cunning, deceitful, scheming.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| conniving |
This word is used to describe someone who secretly schemes to do something considered immoral, illegal, or harmful.
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| scheming |
Use this word to talk about someone who makes secret plans to achieve something, often dishonestly or unfairly. It typically has a negative connotation.
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| deceitful |
This word is used to describe someone who regularly deceives or lies. It carries a strongly negative connotation.
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| cunning |
Use this word to describe someone who is skilled at achieving their goals through clever but often deceitful means. It can sometimes have a more neutral or even positive connotation, implying cleverness.
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| calculating |
This word is typically used to describe someone who is shrewd and deliberately plans actions to achieve a specific goal, often without regards for others.
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Examples of usage
- He was a conniving con artist who tricked people out of their money.
- The conniving villain plotted to overthrow the king and seize power for himself.
planning
To secretly make plans to do something, often in a deceitful or underhanded way.
Synonyms
collude, conspire, plot, scheme.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| conniving |
Typically used when describing someone who secretly plans to do something harmful or dishonest, often for their benefit. This word often carries a negative connotation.
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| scheme |
Used to describe a detailed and complex plan, often one designed to achieve something unfair or dishonest. It can have a negative connotation depending on the context.
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| conspire |
Used when individuals plan together to commit an unlawful or harmful act. This term often implies serious intentions and has a negative connotation.
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| plot |
Refers to a secret plan or strategy, particularly one aimed at causing harm or achieving an illegal goal. It can also refer to the main events of a story. In the context of secretive plans, it has a negative connotation.
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| collude |
Used when two or more parties secretly work together to deceive or cheat others. It is often used in legal or political contexts and has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- She connived with her co-workers to sabotage the project.
- The two criminals connived to steal the valuable jewelry from the museum.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In literature and film, conniving characters often serve as antagonists, plotting against heroes for personal gain, like Iago from Shakespeare's 'Othello'.
- The concept of conniving behavior is frequently depicted in reality TV shows, showcasing competition and deception among contestants.
- Animated shows often use conniving animals or trickster figures to provide comedic relief, highlighting clever schemes and witty banter.
Psychology
- Studies indicate that conniving behavior is often linked to Machiavellian traits, where individuals manipulate or deceive others for personal advantage.
- People displaying these traits may possess high social intelligence, allowing them to read and exploit others' emotions.
- Neglecting ethics in social interactions can lead to a temporary sense of achievement, but it may also result in long-term relationship damage.
History
- Throughout history, many political figures have been described as conniving, using subterfuge to gain power, such as the cunning tactics of Napoleon Bonaparte.
- Historical events, like the Trojan War, are filled with examples of conniving strategies, including the deceptive gift of the Trojan Horse.
- In ancient Rome, leaders often engaged in conniving behaviors to manipulate public opinion and eliminate rivals.
Literature
- Many classic novels feature conniving characters, such as Fagin from 'Oliver Twist', who manipulates young boys for his own profit.
- In George Orwell's 'Animal Farm', the conniving nature of the pigs showcases the theme of betrayal and manipulation in politics.
- Shakespeare often explored themes of deception and connivance, highlighting moral ambiguity in his characters' actions.
Origin of 'conniving'
Main points about word origin
- The word has roots in the Middle English 'connive', derived from Latin 'connivere' meaning 'to close one's eyes to' or 'to pretend not to see'.
- Originally used in the 16th century, it alluded to the act of ignoring someone's wrongdoing.
- The term evolved over time to take on a more deceitful implication, particularly in relation to secretive intentions.
The word 'conniving' originated from the late 16th century, derived from Latin 'connivere' meaning 'to close the eyes', which later evolved to connive. The term originally had a neutral meaning of 'to wink or close the eyes', but over time, it took on a negative connotation of secret plotting or scheming.
See also: connivance, connive.