intrigue
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪnˈtriːɡ/
KK: /ɪnˈtrig/
intransitive verb
Definition
To engage in secret or clever schemes, often involving plotting or planning something hidden.
Example
The mysterious events began to intrigue the townspeople, leading them to speculate about the truth.
Tense Forms
Past: intrigued
Past Participle: intrigued
Conversation
Did you hear about the rumors in the office?
Yeah, they really intrigue me, especially the one about the new project.
I wonder if there's any truth to it or if it's just gossip.
Who knows? But it definitely keeps things exciting!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
conspire
scheme
plot
Antonyms
disclose
reveal
expose
noun
Definition
A secret plan or scheme, often involving deception or underhanded tactics.
Example
The novel is filled with political intrigue and unexpected twists.
Conversation
Did you hear about the new book that has so much intrigue in it?
Yeah, I've heard it's full of unexpected twists and turns.
I love stories that have a lot of intrigue and suspense.
transitive verb
Definition
To cause someone to be very interested or curious about something.
Example
The mysterious book cover intrigued me, making me want to read it.
Tense Forms
Past: intrigued
Past Participle: intrigued
Conversation
I just read a book that really intrigued me.
Oh really? What's it about?
It's about ancient civilizations and how they vanished.
Root Explanation
Intrigue is formed from "in-" (meaning into) and "tricare" (from Latin, meaning to entangle or to trick). The word describes the act of drawing someone into a complicated or secretive situation, often involving deception or mystery.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'drawn into' ('in-') a 'complicated situation' ('tricare') — that's why intrigue means to be involved in something mysterious or secretive.
Visually Confused Words
unintrigued