181 Another Word for Machiavellian? – Machiavellian Synonyms & Antonyms

Want to say Machiavellian differently? Here are other words for Machiavellian and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.


Meaning of Machiavellian

The primary meaning of the word "Machiavellian" refers to the employment of cunning, scheming, and unscrupulous methods to achieve power or success.

Etymology of Machiavellian

The word "Machiavellian" has its roots in the name of the Italian statesman and philosopher Niccolò Machiavelli, who wrote the famous book The Prince in the early 16th century.
The term was first used in the 16th century to describe the principles and methods advocated by Machiavelli in his writings, particularly the use of cunning, deceit, and ruthlessness to achieve power.

Synonyms

cunning deceitful manipulative scheming duplicitous dishonest unscrupulous ruthless cunning crafty sly treacherous traitorous perfidious double-dealing two-faced hypocritical insincere untrustworthy false fake spurious fraudulent corrupt immoral unethical unprincipled expedient opportunistic self-serving power-hungry ambitious designing Machiigenic astute sharp clever resourceful ingenious politic diplomatic tactful strategic calculating shrewd wise prudent discerning

Definitions

  • The word "Machiavellian" is defined by Oxford Languages as relating to or characteristic of the political principles and methods described in Niccolò Machiavelli's books, especially The Prince, which include the use of cunning, deceit, and ruthlessness to achieve power.
  • * Oxford Languages also defines it as having or showing the qualities of cunning, duplicity, and bad faith.

Usage Examples

  • His Machiavellian tactics helped him rise to the top of the corporate ladder.
  • * The politician's Machiavellian approach to politics earned her many enemies.
  • * The company's Machiavellian business practices led to a major scandal.

Antonyms

honest sincere trustworthy truthful genuine authentic principled moral ethical righteous just fair equitable virtuous noble honorable upright decent law-abiding scrupulous conscientious straightforward frank open transparent candid direct blunt forthright aboveboard

Related Adjectives

cunning deceitful manipulative scheming duplicitous dishonest unscrupulous ruthless crafty sly treacherous traitorous perfidious double-dealing two-faced hypocritical insincere untrustworthy false fake spurious fraudulent corrupt immoral unethical unprincipled expedient opportunistic self-serving power-hungry ambitious designing astute sharp clever resourceful ingenious politic diplomatic tactful strategic calculating shrewd wise prudent discerning

Related Nouns

politics power strategy tactics scheme plot plan policy principle method approach philosophy ideology doctrine theory concept idea notion diplomacy statecraft leadership management administration government authority control influence manipulation deception cunning duplicity

Related Verbs

manipulate deceive scheme plot plan strategize maneuver outwit outmaneuver outsmart exploit take advantage use utilize manipulate influence control dominate govern rule lead manage administer direct guide counsel
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