machinations
What does "machinations" mean?
Machinations refers to secret, crafty, and often devious plans or schemes designed to achieve a hidden goal, usually one involving power or manipulation. The mental image is of complex, interlocking gears turning behind the scenes to control an outcome without the target realizing they are being manipulated. The word carries a strong negative connotation of intrigue and underhandedness. It is most commonly used in political, corporate, or dramatic contexts to describe the behind-the-scenes maneuvering of rivals or antagonists. You will often see it paired with verbs like "uncover," "thwart," or "behind the."
"machinations" in conversation
Office politics
Did you see the new restructuring plan?
Did you see the new restructuring plan?
It’s clearly the result of Dave’s latest machinations to isolate our department.
It’s clearly the result of Dave’s latest machinations to isolate our department.
Used to describe a calculated, secretive power move by a colleague.
Historical drama
I am tired of these endless machinations in my court.
I am tired of these endless machinations in my court.
Your Majesty, the nobles will always scheme when power is at stake.
Your Majesty, the nobles will always scheme when power is at stake.
Highlights the formal, slightly dramatic tone often associated with the word.
"machinations" in a sentence
The detective finally uncovered the villain's machinations.
The detective finally uncovered the villain's machinations.
She was weary of the political machinations that dictated life in the capital.
She was weary of the political machinations that dictated life in the capital.
The intricate machinations of the board members were designed to force a hostile takeover.
The intricate machinations of the board members were designed to force a hostile takeover.
