Machiavellian

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He has only given you that $1,000 as an opening gambit, and now he wants something from you, but he is too Machiavellian to ask for it outright.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 25, 2026

“Some spouses use power in a Machiavellian way,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 24, 2026

A few songs that dwell on similar lyrical themes could have been culled; and it would have been thrilling to hear the star's Machiavellian side explored amidst the radio-friendly pop.

From BBC • Oct. 30, 2025

But when he breaks down his thought process, there is less Machiavellian evil and more faulty perceptions and problems with impulse control.

From Slate • Jul. 23, 2025

With that in mind I don’t think I’ll put down the Machiavellian Intelligence Officer’s name.

From "Code Name Verity" by Elizabeth Wein