German word

Intrige

Pronunciation

IPA/ɪnˈtriːgə/

Meaning

  • feminine nounintrigue

Example

In der Firma gibt es viele Intrigen.

There are many intrigues in the company.

Illustration for Intrige (intrigue)

More examples

Solche Intrigen zerstören das Vertrauen im Büro.

Such intrigues destroy trust in the office.

Core concept

A hidden plan moves several people behind the scenes to turn events against someone or toward its authors' advantage.

Common phrases

  • gegen jemanden eine Intrige spinnen

    plot against someone

  • eine Intrige inszenieren

    stage an intrigue

  • eine Intrige auffliegen lassen

    expose an intrigue

Similar words

Machenschaft: A secret scheme uses dishonest means to gain influence or profit.
Hinterlist: A hidden ploy is designed to deceive someone skillfully.
Ränke: Secret, devious maneuvers are arranged to escape notice.
Komplott: A small group secretly conspires to carry out a concrete plan.

Definition in German

Heimlich geplante, hinterhältige Absprachen oder Handlungen, die durch List jemandem schaden oder eigenen Vorteil verschaffen sollen.

Word origin

German Intrige came through French intrigue from Italian intrigo, ultimately from Latin intricare, 'to entangle', whose sense developed toward a tangled plot.

Usage tips

  • Unlike English intrigue, German Intrige does not mean fascination or curiosity; it refers to a plot or scheme.

Other meanings

  • schemenoun

Opposites

  • Integritätintegritynoun

Related words

  • Intrigenspielgame of intriguenoun
  • Intrigantschemernoun

Word lists with this word