conniver

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "conniver" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who secretly plans or schemes, often for dishonest or deceitful purposes. Example: "He was known as a conniver, always plotting ways to manipulate others for his own gain."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

"Rachel has always been a bit of a conniver and used to having things her way," he said.

The New Yorker

What a wonderful time it is for the scammer, the conniver, and the cheat: the underage drinkers who flash fake I.D.s, the able-bodied adults who… Beethoven is a singularity in the history of art — a phenomenon of dazzling and disconcerting force.

The New Yorker

Wally gave no evidence of thinking himself a rough intruder or a devious conniver after my happiness.

The New Yorker

What a wonderful time it is for the scammer, the conniver, and the cheat: the underage drinkers who flash fake I.D.s, the able-bodied adults who drive cars with handicapped license plates, the parents who use a phony address so that their child can attend a more desirable public school, the customers with eleven items who stand in the express lane.

The New Yorker

But Justice Richard Buchter said Mr. Ramrattan deserved no mercy, calling him a "diabolical conniver and sinister manipulator" who had "shamelessly exploited the criminal justice system".

The New York Times

In this sitcom about mismatched but loving siblings sharing a roof B J is a saucy conniver who keeps the show's sweetness in check.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Like many Poles, he disdains the "Yids," whom he insults as money-grubbing connivers.

The New Yorker

I have always been drawn to the eccentrics, the odds-beaters, the benign connivers, the showmen, the pilgrims, and the raffish self-glorifiers.

The New Yorker

ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar -- A few weeks ago, 22 provocateurs -- among them five connivers from the military itself -- planned a predawn mission to murder the prime minister.

The New York Times

But Turkish television has given the soap a fresh twist by making the connivers, kidnappers and canoodlers Muslims.

The New York Times - Arts

And he's smart enough to see through the bald-faced hypocrisies of his fellow connivers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character in fiction or analyzing a real-life figure, use "conniver" to convey a sense of calculated deception and self-serving manipulation.

Common error

While "conniver" is acceptable in news and media, avoid using it excessively in formal or academic writing. Opt for more neutral terms like "strategist" or "negotiator" when describing someone's actions in a business or academic setting, unless the intent is explicitly negative.

Linguistic Context

The word "conniver" functions primarily as a noun, referring to a person who secretly plots or schemes to achieve their goals, often through dishonest means. As Ludwig AI confirms, this word is widely used in the English language.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Books

20%

Arts

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The noun "conniver" describes someone who schemes and manipulates, usually for personal gain. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage and common occurrence in English, particularly in News & Media, Books, and Arts. While grammatically sound, it's crucial to be mindful of its negative connotation, especially in formal contexts. Alternatives like "schemer" or "manipulator" may be appropriate depending on the specific shade of meaning intended. As illustrated by examples from Ludwig, using "conniver" effectively adds depth and precision when portraying characters or analyzing situations involving calculated deceit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

schemer

Focuses on the planning aspect of underhanded dealings.

intriguer

Emphasizes the use of secret plots and schemes.

manipulator

Highlights the control and influence exerted over others.

plotter

Stresses the act of devising secret plans.

Machiavellian

Implies cunning, scheming, and a disregard for morality in achieving goals.

trickster

Suggests the use of tricks and deception, often in a playful or mischievous way.

deceiver

Highlights the act of misleading or deceiving others.

wire-puller

Focuses on someone who secretly controls events or people.

operator

Implies someone who is skilled at achieving their goals, often through questionable means.

sham

Highlights the deceitful or fraudulent nature of someone's actions or character.

FAQs

How can I use "conniver" in a sentence?

You can use "conniver" to describe someone who schemes and manipulates situations for their own benefit. For example: "The politician was known as a shrewd "conniver", always finding ways to gain an advantage."

What are some synonyms for "conniver"?

Synonyms for "conniver" include "schemer", "intriguer", "manipulator", and "plotter". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "conniver" and "schemer"?

While both terms refer to someone who makes plans, "conniver" often implies a greater degree of deception and manipulation than "schemer". A "conniver" is more likely to use underhanded tactics.

Is it appropriate to use "conniver" in formal writing?

While "conniver" is widely understood, it carries a negative connotation. In formal writing, consider using more neutral terms like "strategist" or "negotiator" unless you specifically want to emphasize the deceitful nature of the person's actions.