Synonyms for

Conspiracy

Verb / kʌˈnspɪrʌsi: / Another word for conspiracy — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a secret plan by a group to do something unlawful or harmful

Synonyms & similar words

cabal confederacy plot scheme machination collusion treason sedition subversion cabal connivance treachery manipulation intrigue deception trickery fraud hoax ploy ruse ploy game

Synonyms by register

Formal

collusion plot scheme machination

Informal

scheme plot racket fix

Literary

cabals intrigue stratagem

Antonyms

agreement accord harmony cooperation transparency openness honesty

Common collocations

  • conspiracy theory
  • political conspiracy
  • criminal conspiracy
  • secret conspiracy
  • uncover a conspiracy
  • expose a conspiracy
  • join a conspiracy
  • suspect a conspiracy

Word family

noun conspiracy
verb conspire
adjective conspiratorial

Usage note

Often used with negative connotations, implying secret wrongdoing. 'Conspiracy theory' is a common collocation referring to an explanation of an event or situation that invokes a conspiracy by sinister and powerful groups, often political in motivation.

Example sentences

  1. The conspiracy to rob the bank was foiled by the police.
  2. There were rumors of a conspiracy to assassinate the president.
  3. The government was accused of covering up a conspiracy.
  4. The group was charged with conspiracy to commit fraud.
  5. The conspiracy was exposed by a whistleblower.

Quotes

  • A conspiracy is nothing but a secret agreement of a number of men for the pursuance of policies which they dare not admit in public.
  • The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.
  • The truth is rarely pure and never simple.

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