Machinating

The act of secretly planning or scheming, often with cunning and deception, to achieve a particular goal, usually a negative or underhanded one. It implies intricate plotting, often involving manipulating circumstances or individuals to bring about a desired outcome. machinating often involves a degree of secrecy and an awareness of potential moral or ethical implications. The focus is on the clandestine nature of the planning and the calculated efforts employed. This can involve forming alliances, spreading misinformation, or exploiting vulnerabilities.

Machinating meaning with examples

• The corrupt politician was caught machinating with several influential lobbyists. He was accused of secretly exchanging favors for substantial campaign donations, aiming to sway legislation in their favor. His complex network of communication, anonymous shell corporations, and carefully timed public statements revealed an intricate plot designed to conceal his activities and maximize his personal gain. This ultimately lead to his downfall when the scheme was discovered.
• The rival companies were suspected of machinating behind the scenes to sabotage their competitor's product launch. They spread false rumors, contacted major suppliers to disrupt the supply chain, and even attempted to poach key employees, showcasing a well-organized operation. Their goal was to cripple the new product and maintain their dominance in the market, demonstrating a cutthroat competitive strategy and disregard for ethical business practices.
• In the fantasy novel, the sorcerer was depicted machinating for years. He carefully cultivated his image as a benevolent wizard while secretly amassing dark magic and forging alliances with shadowy creatures. His ultimate goal was to usurp the throne and plunge the kingdom into eternal darkness, a long game involving careful manipulation of key figures and events to achieve a long held goal.
• Detectives suspected that the victim's estranged spouse was machinating, plotting the murder to claim a hefty life insurance payout. They investigated his alibi and reviewed financial records, and their investigation revealed a series of staged events and carefully disguised communications. Evidence of his careful planning involving hired accomplices, financial incentives, and manipulation of key individuals ultimately led to his arrest for conspiracy to commit murder.