Conniving: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used to describe someone who secretly schemes to do something considered immoral, illegal, or harmful.

• She was accused of conniving with her boss to embezzle funds

Use this word to talk about someone who makes secret plans to achieve something, often dishonestly or unfairly. It typically has a negative connotation.

• He was always scheming behind the scenes to get ahead at work

This word is used to describe someone who regularly deceives or lies. It carries a strongly negative connotation.

• Her deceitful behavior was eventually uncovered, leading to her termination

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.

• The fox is often portrayed as a cunning animal in folklore

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.

• His calculating nature made him a successful businessman, though not a very likable one

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.

• She was conniving behind his back to get him fired.
• His conniving nature eventually led to his downfall.

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.

• He devised a scheme to avoid paying taxes.
• Her latest scheme involved tricking her coworkers into doing her work.

Used when individuals plan together to commit an unlawful or harmful act. This term often implies serious intentions and has a negative connotation.

• The group conspired to overthrow the government.
• They were arrested for conspiring against the state.

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.

• They uncovered a plot to assassinate the president.
• The novel had an intricate plot full of unexpected twists.

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.

• The companies were found to have colluded to fix prices.
• He was accused of colluding with foreign governments.