Synonyms for

Shenanigans

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

Definition

Secret or dishonest activity or behavior that is typically humorous or playful.

Synonyms & similar words

trickery chicane roguishness devilry shenanigan mischiefmaking mischief mischievousness guile chicanery roguery deviltry wile devilment rascality mischief trickery deceit tomfoolery pranks hoax joke stunt antics jiggery-pokery chicanery skulduggery ploy deception ruse fraud gambit dodge maneuver wile

Synonyms by register

Formal

misconduct malfeasance irregularity impropriety

Informal

shenaniganry monkey business tomfoolery shenanigan hanky-panky

Literary

frolics antics

Antonyms

seriousness earnestness decorum propriety orderliness respectability

Common collocations

  • mild shenanigans
  • serious shenanigans
  • political shenanigans
  • financial shenanigans
  • childish shenanigans
  • endless shenanigans
  • avoid shenanigans

Word family

noun shenanigans

Usage note

Shenanigans is an informal word, often used humorously, to describe mischievous or dishonest behavior. It is rarely used in formal contexts.

Example sentences

  1. The cat was causing shenanigans by knocking over vases.
  2. My little brother always tries to get away with shenanigans when he thinks no one is looking.
  3. The magician's shenanigans were so funny that the audience couldn't stop laughing.
  4. The students were caught engaging in shenanigans in the school's computer lab.
  5. The politician's shenanigans were exposed by the press.

Quotes

  • Life is full of shenanigans.
  • I don't have time for shenanigans.
  • I'm tired of all the political shenanigans.

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