Connivance Meaning and Definition
Connivance
Pronunciation
/ˈkɑnɪvəns/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A trait or behavior of secretly aiding or assisting another in committing a wrong or an illegal act, often without being directly involved or taking credit for it.
Examples
- The accomplice played a role in the heist, but remained in the background, often referred to as connivance.
- The mastermind behind the scam had several people involved in the connivance, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact number of suspects.
Synonyms
- Complicity
- Collusion
Antonyms
- Honesty
- Transparency
Etymology
The word connivance originated from the Latin “connivere,” meaning “to wink” or “to connive,” which was used to describe the act of secretly aiding or assisting someone.
Usage Notes
When using the word connivance, it’s essential to ensure that the definition fits the context. This means avoiding ambiguous language and being clear about the intentions or actions taken by the individuals involved.
Cultural References
Connivance has been mentioned in various literary works, such as in the novels of Arthur Conan Doyle and Agatha Christie, where characters often engage in connivance to commit crimes.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- To look the other way
- To turn a blind eye
Related Words or Phrases
- Accomplice
- Collaborator
Collocations
- Connivance and crime
- Connivance and corruption
Frequency of Use
Connivance is a relatively uncommon word in everyday language, but it’s often used in academic, literary, and professional contexts where the nuances of language matter.
Common Misspellings
- Connivence
- Conniveance