complot
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /kəmˈplɒt/
KK: /kəmˈplɑt/
noun
Definition
A secret plan made by two or more people to do something harmful or illegal.
Example
The group was arrested for their involvement in a complot against the government.
Conversation
Did you hear about that new movie?
Yeah, I've heard it's all about a big complot against the government.
I love those kinds of stories!
Me too! They always keep you guessing until the end.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
conspiracy
scheme
collusion
Antonyms
honesty
openness
truth
verb
Definition
To secretly plan or scheme something, often with others, usually for a negative or harmful purpose.
Example
They decided to complot against their rival to gain an advantage.
Tense Forms
Past: com plotted
Past Participle: com plotted
Conversation
Did you hear about the surprise party we're going to complot?
Yeah, I can't wait to help out with the planning!
We should meet up this weekend to complot the details.
Root Explanation
Complot originates from the Old French 'complot', meaning a plot or conspiracy. The word itself is derived from 'com-' (meaning together) and 'plot' (meaning a plan or scheme). Thus, 'complot' refers to a plan or scheme made together, often in secret.
Memory Tip
Think of people making a 'plan' ('plot') 'together' ('com-') — that's why complot means a secret plan or conspiracy.
Visually Confused Words
copilot
coemploy