What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
connive
Example
The manager was accused of conniving with the supplier to inflate prices. [conniving: verb]
Example
She knew her friend was cheating on the test, but she decided to connive and not tell the teacher. [connive: verb]
conspire
Example
The group conspired to rob the bank and split the money. [conspired: past tense verb]
Example
The employees conspired against the boss to get him fired. [conspired: past participle verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Conspire is less commonly used than connive in everyday language. Conspire is often associated with criminal activity and is used in more formal contexts, such as legal proceedings. Connive is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
Whatβs the difference in the tone of formality between connive and conspire?
Conspire is more formal than connive. It is often used in legal or official contexts, while connive is more commonly used in everyday language and can be employed in various formality levels.