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conniving

adjective

/kəˈnʌɪvɪŋ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of conniving

Acting in a deceitful or manipulative way in order to achieve a goal, often at the expense of others.
"The conniving politician plotted to overthrow his opponents."

Detailed meaning of conniving

A conniving person is often perceived as cunning, scheming, and willing to use deceitful or underhanded tactics to gain an advantage. The word is often used to describe someone who is willing to bend or break the rules in order to achieve their objectives, and who may be willing to hurt or deceive others in order to get what they want.

In terms of business, it refers to a person who is willing to use dishonest or unethical methods to gain an advantage over their competitors.

In terms of politics or law, it refers to a person who is willing to use dishonest or unethical methods to gain power or influence.

In terms of personal relationships, it refers to a person who is willing to use deceit or manipulation to control or exploit others.

The term implies a certain level of deceit, manipulation, and unethical behavior. It usually has negative connotations.

Example sentences containing conniving

1. The conniving salesman tried to cheat the customers with false promises.
2. Her conniving behavior landed her in trouble with the authorities.
3. His conniving ways made him unpopular among his colleagues.
4. The conniving boss manipulated the employees to do his bidding.
5. She had a conniving smile that suggested she was up to no good.
6. The conniving thief managed to steal the valuable painting without getting caught.

History and etymology of conniving

The adjective 'conniving' has its etymological roots in the Middle English word 'cunnan,' which means 'to know' or 'to be skilled,' and it is related to the Old Norse word 'kunnandi,' meaning 'knowledgeable' or 'wise.' Over time, this evolved to incorporate a sense of cunning or craftiness in one's knowledge or skills. 'Conniving' implies acting in a deceitful or manipulative way to achieve a goal, often at the expense of others. It suggests a clever and secretive approach to achieving one's objectives, sometimes involving schemes or covert actions. While the original etymological connection to knowledge and skill remains, 'conniving' has taken on a more negative connotation related to cunning and deceitful behavior.

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Further usage examples of conniving

1. His conniving plan backfired when his accomplice turned against him.
2. The conniving lawyer used underhanded tactics to win the case.
3. The conniving ex-boyfriend spread rumors about his former girlfriend to ruin her reputation.
4. The conniving rival tried to sabotage his competition's project.
5. The conniving business partner embezzled funds from the company without anyone noticing.
6. Her conniving tactics in the boardroom shocked her colleagues.
7. The conniving character schemed to undermine the hero.
8. He hatched a conniving plan to outwit his competitors.
9. The conniving politician was involved in a major scandal.
10. Conniving behavior can lead to a loss of trust.
11. A conniving plot unfolded in the shadows of the story.
12. The conniving villain used deception to achieve power.
13. Her conniving actions damaged her reputation irreparably.
14. The conniving spy infiltrated the enemy's organization.
15. Conniving individuals often face consequences for their actions.
16. The conniving duo conspired to steal the priceless artifact.
17. Conniving characters are a staple in many thrillers.
18. He displayed conniving behavior to gain an unfair advantage.
19. The conniving assistant sabotaged her colleague's work.
20. Conniving tactics rarely lead to long-term success.
21. The conniving mastermind pulled the strings behind the scenes.
22. Conniving characters add intrigue to the plot.
23. The conniving plot unraveled with shocking revelations.
24. The conniving antagonist plotted revenge against the hero.
25. His conniving nature made him an unpredictable adversary.