Machiavellian
Machiavellian (adj) means willing to use cunning, deception, or ruthless scheming to achieve power or goals, especially in politics. Example: “His Machiavellian tactics won him the promotion but cost him his colleagues' trust.”
How to use Machiavellian
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribes someone who schemes and manipulates without moral limits to get what they want.
Usually carries a negative, critical tone — it's rarely used as a compliment.
Word forms
more Machiavellian comparative, Machiavellians plural, most Machiavellian superlative
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His _____ tactics won him the promotion but cost him his colleagues' trust.
Etymology
From the name of Niccolò Machiavelli (1469-1527), the Italian writer whose book "The Prince" argued that rulers may need to use unethical methods to gain and keep power.
Rhymes for Machiavellian
See all rhymes for Machiavellian →Frequently asked questions
What does “Machiavellian” mean?
The word “Machiavellian” means willing to use cunning, deception, or ruthless scheming to achieve power or goals, especially in politics. In plain terms, describes someone who schemes and manipulates without moral limits to get what they want.
How do you pronounce “Machiavellian”?
“Machiavellian” is pronounced mak-ee-uh-VEHL-ee-uhn (/ˌmɑk.i.əˈvɛl.i.ən/ in IPA).
How do you use “Machiavellian” in a sentence?
Here is “Machiavellian” used in a sentence: “His Machiavellian tactics won him the promotion but cost him his colleagues' trust.”
What part of speech is “Machiavellian”?
“Machiavellian” is an adjective.
Where does the word “Machiavellian” come from?
The word “Machiavellian” dates back to around 1469 and comes from Italian. From the name of Niccolò Machiavelli (1469-1527), the Italian writer whose book "The Prince" argued that rulers may need to use unethical methods to gain and keep power.
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