Knaves

Knaves (plural of knave) refers to dishonest or unscrupulous men. It describes individuals who are deceitful, lacking in integrity, and often willing to engage in trickery or manipulation for personal gain. These individuals often exploit others' trust or weaknesses. They are characterized by a propensity for scheming and treachery. A knave might be involved in petty theft, swindling, or more elaborate acts of corruption. The term implies a degree of cunning and a disregard for moral principles. Historically, the term has also been used in card games to refer to the jack.

Knaves meaning with examples

• The company's executives, revealed as knaves in a recent exposé, had systematically defrauded investors, leading to significant financial losses for many. Their calculated deception and disregard for ethical conduct shocked the public, demonstrating the depths of their dishonesty. The subsequent legal proceedings exposed a network of corruption and greed, highlighting the devastating consequences of unchecked avarice.
• In the classic novel, the antagonist, a cunning merchant, was portrayed as a knave, using his charm and deceptive tactics to exploit the protagonist and amass a fortune. His willingness to betray those around him for personal gain, and to spread falsehoods for his own benefit, ultimately contributed to the hero's downfall, showcasing the destructive power of deceit.
• The politician, widely suspected of being a knave, consistently avoided answering direct questions and was rumored to have taken bribes. Despite accusations of corruption, he skillfully deflected criticism, using his influence and manipulative skills to maintain his position, thereby highlighting the vulnerability of institutions to individuals of ill-repute.
• The detective meticulously investigated the case, suspecting the victim's business partner was a knave. The detective's suspicion was rooted in the partner's inconsistent stories and past fraudulent behavior. The partner’s actions appeared to be driven by greed and self-preservation, all of which provided a motive for the crime, illustrating the consequences of poor morals.