WordValemachination
a scheming or crafty plot to gain advantage
In more detail
1. (noun) a complicated and often secret plan or scheme, especially one intended to harm someone or achieve an unfair advantage
2. (noun) the action of planning and carrying out such schemes
Examples
- 1. The CEO's machinations to force out his rival eventually led to a scandal.
- 2. Through various machinations, she managed to get the promotion she wanted.
How to use machination
Machination is typically used in formal or literary contexts to describe elaborate, morally questionable plots, often political or interpersonal in nature. It carries a stronger sense of deviousness and complexity than simple 'plan' or 'scheme', and often implies secretive coordination over time. The word frequently appears in the plural form.
Common phrases
- devious machinations
- political machinations
- behind-the-scenes machinations
- expose machinations
- orchestrate machinations
Synonyms
plot · scheme · intrigue · conspiracy · stratagem
Word family
machinate (verb) · machinator (noun)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use machination as a synonym for simple planning or strategy when the word specifically implies underhanded or harmful intent.
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