Underhandedness: meaning, definitions and examples
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underhandedness
[ ʌndərˈhændədnəs ]
deceptive behavior
Underhandedness refers to the quality or state of being secretive, deceptive, or dishonest in one’s actions. It often implies a lack of transparency and integrity, typically associated with schemes or methods that are unethical or covert. Those exhibiting underhandedness may engage in manipulation to gain an advantage over others.
Synonyms
deceitfulness, dishonesty, duplicity, subterfuge, treachery
Examples of usage
- His underhandedness during the negotiations was shocking.
- The underhandedness of the scandal revealed a larger pattern of corruption.
- She reached her position through underhandedness rather than skill.
Translations
Translations of the word "underhandedness" in other languages:
🇵🇹 desonestidade
🇮🇳 धोखाधड़ी
🇩🇪 Hinterhältigkeit
🇮🇩 kecurangan
🇺🇦 нечесність
🇵🇱 podłość
🇯🇵 陰険さ
🇫🇷 malhonnêteté
🇪🇸 deshonestidad
🇹🇷 hilekarlık
🇰🇷 비열함
🇸🇦 خداع
🇨🇿 podlost
🇸🇰 zákerosť
🇨🇳 阴险
🇸🇮 podlost
🇮🇸 svik
🇰🇿 алдамшылық
🇬🇪 დაჩოქება
🇦🇿 aldadıcılıq
🇲🇽 deshonestidad
Word origin
The term 'underhandedness' originates from the combination of 'underhanded', which means done secretly or dishonestly, and the suffix '-ness' that denotes a state or quality. The adjective 'underhanded' first appeared in the English language in the late 19th century, specifically in the context of actions that were not straightforward or fair. It likely derives from the literal idea of doing something under one's hand, implying a hidden or sneaky approach. Over time, 'underhandedness' evolved to describe not only the act of deceit but also the characteristic of a person that engages in such shady practices. The concept resonates in various aspects of life, from casual interactions to serious political maneuvers, highlighting the human tendency to resort to cunning methods to achieve goals.