Synonyms of machinations

machinations

noun

plural of machination

as in schemes

a secret plan for accomplishing evil or unlawful ends

incredibly complicated machinations to assassinate the president that inevitably failed

Synonyms & Similar Words

• schemes
• conspiracies
• plots
• intrigues
• manipulations
• subterfuges
• strategies
• trickeries
• designs
• stratagems
• maneuvers
• cabals
• counterplots
• artifices
• contrivances
• collusions
• frame-ups
• dodges
• systems
• rackets
• confederacies
• programs
• complicities
• counterconspiracies
• cover-ups
• drafts
• connivances
• ground plans
• gimmicks
• tricks
• games
• rings
• conspirations

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of machinations

But Margaret and Alice’s quick-witted machinations provide the basis for a merry outing at the theater. — Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 23 July 2026

As much as the hero of Homer’s tale could blame Poseidon’s and Zeus’ machinations for delaying his journey, the movie Odysseus can only look inward. — Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 17 July 2026

When the two storylines collide, Nolan stages a clash of A-list titans that throws the director’s usual cerebral machinations aside and instead satisfies his audience with some good old-fashion bloodlust. — James Hibberd, HollywoodReporter, 16 July 2026

But after episode 4, his machinations and power plays have come to light, setting him up as the next formidable adversary to the new queen — and the latest focus of the fandom’s memes. — Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 15 July 2026

And the players tend to be reluctant to pontificate about the inner machinations of bargaining, especially on a stage purported to celebrate the game. — Andy McCullough, New York Times, 15 July 2026

Still, similar machinations continue to be played out by both parties. — Charles Selle, Chicago Tribune, 8 July 2026

Today's stock-market market conversation is dominated by structural dynamics, index machinations and mechanical flows the way World Cup chatter fixates on officiating decisions and bracket construction. — Michael Santoli, CNBC, 7 July 2026

Speaking of political machinations, the match is already knee-deep in controversy. — Aj Willingham, AJC.com, 6 July 2026