conniving

word · lemma: connive

Definition

Describes someone who secretly plans to do something wrong or dishonest, often in a clever way.

Usage & Nuances

Usually negative and formal or literary. Common with nouns like 'person', 'plan', 'behavior'. Implies sneaky, manipulative actions for personal gain. Do not confuse with simply 'clever' or 'ambitious'.

Example Sentences

The conniving villain tricked everyone in the story.

basic

She looked at him with a conniving smile.

basic

No one trusted his conniving ways.

basic

Don't be so conniving just to get what you want.

natural

Even her friends thought she was a bit too conniving sometimes.

natural

Their conniving scheme was finally exposed to everyone at work.

natural