conspiracy (C1)

noun

Pronunciation: /kənˈspɪrəsi/

Definition

A secret plan by a group to do something unlawful or harmful, such as overthrow a government or assassinate someone.

Examples

• The police uncovered a conspiracy to bomb the city.

• He was accused of being part of a conspiracy to defraud investors.

• The novel detailed a complex conspiracy involving politicians and spies.

How to Use conspiracy

conspiracy to do something (prepositional phrase)

A plan to perform a specific action. — "They were arrested for conspiracy to steal valuable artwork."

conspiracy against someone (prepositional phrase)

A secret plan intended to harm a particular person. — "The guards foiled a conspiracy against the king."

conspiracy theory (collocation)

An explanation for an event or situation that involves a secret plot by powerful people. — "Many people believe the moon landing was faked, a popular conspiracy theory."

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