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noun Uncommon

collusion

kuh-LOO-zhuhn

Collusion (noun) means a secret agreement between people or groups to work together dishonestly, often while pretending to be rivals. Example: “Regulators found evidence of collusion between the two "competing" airlines to fix ticket prices.”

noun
1
A secret agreement between people or groups to work together dishonestly, often while pretending to be rivals.
"Regulators found evidence of collusion between the two "competing" airlines to fix ticket prices."
"The scandal exposed collusion between the contractor and the inspector."

How to use collusion

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA secret, underhanded deal between parties who are supposed to be independent or opposed.

Common mistake

Collusion implies secrecy and dishonesty; a normal open partnership or cooperation is not collusion.

Common pairings
collusion between evidence of collusion allegations of collusion

Word forms

collusions plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Regulators found evidence of _____ between the two "competing" airlines to fix ticket prices.

Etymology

From Old French collusion, from Latin collusio, "act of colluding" — secretly playing along together.

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for collusion

See all rhymes for collusion →

Frequently asked questions

What does “collusion” mean?

The word “collusion” means a secret agreement between people or groups to work together dishonestly, often while pretending to be rivals. In plain terms, a secret, underhanded deal between parties who are supposed to be independent or opposed.

How do you pronounce “collusion”?

“Collusion” is pronounced kuh-LOO-zhuhn (/kəˈluːʒən/ in IPA).

How do you use “collusion” in a sentence?

Here is “collusion” used in a sentence: “Regulators found evidence of collusion between the two "competing" airlines to fix ticket prices.”

What part of speech is “collusion”?

“Collusion” is a noun.

Where does the word “collusion” come from?

The word “collusion” comes from Latin. From Old French collusion, from Latin collusio, "act of colluding" — secretly playing along together.

Is “collusion” a common word?

“Collusion” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial