noun
- clever schemes or plots, especially ones that are secret and intended to harm someone or gain an advantage
Usage: usually plural; often implies deception or manipulation
Examples
- The political machinations behind the scenes were finally exposed by the press.
- She was tired of the office machinations and decided to find a new job.
- The villain’s machinations were thwarted by the hero’s quick thinking.
- Corporate machinations led to the hostile takeover of the smaller company.
- His machinations to gain control of the board were unsuccessful.
- The novel reveals the dark machinations of the royal court.