Cabal

A cabal is a small, secret group of people who conspire to achieve a political, personal, or other objective, often through intrigue or plotting. Members of a cabal typically operate in secrecy, using deception and manipulation to advance their agenda. The group's actions are often perceived as underhanded and potentially harmful to others. The word implies a degree of exclusivity and an intent to wield power behind the scenes, often at the expense of openness and transparency. The term carries a negative connotation, suggesting illicit behavior and a disregard for ethical principles.

Cabal meaning with examples

• The political scandal was attributed to a cabal of powerful lobbyists who secretly influenced legislation to benefit their corporate clients. This clandestine group worked tirelessly to ensure their interests were prioritized, often against the public's best interests. They used various tactics to maintain their influence, including campaign donations, backroom deals, and even blackmail, revealing the group's ruthless methods.
• Rumors circulated that a cabal within the university was controlling the selection of new faculty members, favoring their own protégés and deliberately excluding qualified candidates who didn't share their academic perspective. The selection process became a source of intense controversy as suspicions grew about their nepotism and the exclusion of those with dissenting views.
• During the revolution, a cabal of generals plotted to overthrow the democratically elected government, believing they could bring stability through authoritarian rule. Their plot was carried out in secret. They gathered support among the military and organized a coup, hoping to consolidate their power and eliminate all opposition. The coup failed, but its origins in the secret cabal were exposed.
• In the world of art, a cabal of critics and collectors often wields significant influence, shaping public perception and determining the market value of artists' work. These members work in secret, making the art world a murky and confusing environment. Artists outside the cabal can struggle to gain recognition, highlighting the power and influence held by this small, interconnected group.
• The detective suspected a cabal of high-ranking officials was responsible for covering up the murder, their motivations remaining secretive. Evidence was hidden and trails erased, pointing to their coordinated efforts to obstruct the investigation and protect the guilty. This clandestine group was dedicated to shielding themselves from justice and ensuring that the truth remained buried.