machiavellian
/ˌmækiəˈvɛliən/
adjective
- Using clever, dishonest, or manipulative tactics to achieve power or success, often without caring about morality.
- Her machiavellian boss would praise her in public but undermine her in private meetings.
- The movie's villain used machiavellian schemes to take control of the company.
- The politician's machiavellian strategy involved spreading rumors about his opponents.
Antonyms
noun
- A person who is cunning, manipulative, and willing to use unethical methods to get what they want.
- Some historians describe the ancient ruler as a machiavellian who used deceit to maintain control.
- The CEO was a true machiavellian, always plotting his next move behind everyone's back.
- In the novel, the advisor is portrayed as a machiavellian who stops at nothing to gain influence.