Machiavellian

Pronunciation: /ˌmæk.i.əˈvɛ.li.ən/

Definitions of Machiavellian

adjective relating to or characteristic of the Italian political philosopher Niccolò Machiavelli, especially in being cunning, scheming, and unscrupulous in politics.

Example Sentences

A1 The Machiavellian character in the story was very cunning and deceitful.

A2 The politician's Machiavellian tactics helped him gain power and influence.

B1 The CEO's Machiavellian approach to business was both admired and feared by his employees.

B2 The Machiavellian scheming of the antagonist made them a formidable foe for the protagonist.

C1 The Machiavellian nature of the dictator's regime was evident in their manipulation of the media and suppression of dissent.

C2 The Machiavellian plot to overthrow the government involved intricate planning and manipulation of key players.

Examples of Machiavellian in a Sentence

formal The politician's Machiavellian tactics were evident in his manipulation of public opinion.

informal I don't trust him, he's always playing these Machiavellian games.

slang She's so Machiavellian, always scheming behind everyone's back.

figurative The CEO's Machiavellian approach to business was like a chess master moving pieces on a board.

Grammatical Forms of Machiavellian

• past tense: Machiavellianized
• plural: Machiavellians
• comparative: more Machiavellian
• superlative: most Machiavellian
• present tense: Machiavellianizes
• future tense: will Machiavellianize
• perfect tense: has Machiavellianized
• continuous tense: is Machiavellianizing
• singular: Machiavellian
• positive degree: Machiavellian
• infinitive: to Machiavellianize
• gerund: Machiavellianizing
• participle: Machiavellianized

Origin and Evolution of Machiavellian

First Known Use: 1604 year

Language of Origin: Italian

Story behind the word: The word 'Machiavellian' originates from the Italian political philosopher Niccolò Machiavelli, known for his work 'The Prince' which discusses political strategies and tactics.

Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe cunning and deceitful political behavior inspired by Machiavelli's writings, the term 'Machiavellian' has evolved to encompass any behavior characterized by manipulation and duplicity, not limited to politics.