treachery

word

/ˈtɹɛtʃɝi/
/tɹˈɛtʃəɹi/

Definition

Treachery is the act of betraying someone's trust or being disloyal, often in a secret or dangerous way.

Usage & Nuances

Tends to be formal or literary; used for serious betrayals, not small lies. Often collocates with 'act of', 'political', or 'personal'. Do not confuse with 'trickery' (deception); 'treachery' usually involves an element of trust and deep betrayal.

Example Sentences

His treachery shocked everyone in the group.

basic

Treachery can break even the strongest friendship.

basic

The king was angry about the minister’s treachery.

basic

What hurt most was the treachery of someone I trusted.

natural

People never forget an act of treachery.

natural

Stories of treachery are common in history and literature.

natural