What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
conspire
Example
The two men conspired to rob the bank. [conspired: past tense verb]
Example
The employees conspired against their boss to get him fired. [conspired: past participle verb]
Example
It seems like fate is conspiring against me today. [conspiring: present participle verb]
contrive
Example
She contrived a plan to surprise her friend on her birthday. [contrived: past tense verb]
Example
The artist contrived a sculpture out of scrap metal. [contrived: past participle verb]
Example
He contrived to finish the project on time despite the setbacks. [contrived: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Contrive is less commonly used than conspire in everyday language. Conspire is often associated with negative connotations and is used more frequently in news or media contexts, while contrive is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between conspire and contrive?
Both conspire and contrive are typically used in formal contexts, such as legal or academic writing. However, conspire may also be used in informal contexts, such as casual conversation or storytelling, to add dramatic effect.
