hidden agenda

USAGE SUMMARY

"hidden agenda" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a secret plan or aim that somebody has, usually with negative connotations. For example: "The new mayor had a hidden agenda to sell off public property for private gain."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

No hidden agenda".

The New York Times

France's hidden agenda?

The Economist

There was a hidden agenda.

The New York Times

He had a hidden agenda.

The New York Times - Arts

That is their hidden agenda".

The New York Times

There is no hidden agenda.

The New York Times

Of course, there is a hidden agenda.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Is there a hidden agenda behind this?

The New York Times

He has a hidden agenda.

The New Yorker

"What is their hidden agenda?

The Guardian

I have no hidden agenda.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "hidden agenda", ensure the context clearly indicates the secrecy and potential negativity associated with the unstated plan. Avoid using it casually; its impact is strongest when there's a genuine sense of deception or manipulation.

Common error

While "hidden agenda" often carries negative connotations, it doesn't automatically equate to malice. The secret plan might be self-serving, but not necessarily harmful. Always make sure the context indicates the true nature of the undisclosed plan.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hidden agenda" functions as a noun phrase. It commonly acts as the object of a verb or the subject complement, denoting a concealed plan or motive, as demonstrated by Ludwig and the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

4%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hidden agenda" is a noun phrase referring to a secret plan or motive, typically carrying negative connotations of deception or manipulation. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, predominantly in News & Media, Academia, and Formal & Business settings. While "hidden agenda" often implies negativity, it's crucial to assess the specific context to determine the nature of the concealed plan. Alternatives such as "ulterior motive" and "secret intention" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ulterior motive

Focuses more directly on the motivation being concealed.

secret intention

Highlights the intention being kept secret, rather than the plan itself.

covert objective

Emphasizes the secrecy and the goal-oriented nature of the hidden plan.

underlying scheme

Suggests a more elaborate and potentially manipulative plan.

private design

Focuses on the personal nature and intent behind the plan.

undeclared purpose

Highlights that the purpose is not openly stated or acknowledged.

unspoken aim

Emphasizes the lack of verbal communication regarding the objective.

secret plan

Directly refers to a plan being kept under wraps.

unrevealed strategy

Focuses on the strategic aspect of the hidden intention.

furtive motive

Suggests a sneaky and secretive underlying motivation.

FAQs

How to use "hidden agenda" in a sentence?

You can use "hidden agenda" to describe a secret plan or motive that someone has, often with negative implications. For example: "The politician's promise of tax cuts might have a "hidden agenda" to benefit wealthy donors."

What can I say instead of "hidden agenda"?

You can use alternatives like "ulterior motive", "secret intention", or "covert objective" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "hidden agenda" and "ulterior motive"?

"Hidden agenda" refers to the secret plan itself, while "ulterior motive" focuses on the secret reason or motivation behind someone's actions. They are closely related but emphasize different aspects of the deception.

Is "hidden agenda" always negative?

While often used in negative contexts to suggest deception or manipulation, "hidden agenda" isn't inherently negative. However, the implication of secrecy usually raises suspicion and thus leans towards a negative perception. It's important to consider the specific context.