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Machiavellian

[mak-ee-uh-vel-ee-uhn] / ˌmæk i əˈvɛl i ən /


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.

Who was this young actor going toe-to-toe with Glenn Close as “Damages’” deliciously Machiavellian attorney Patty Hewes?

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 25, 2026

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

Grown men can be as Machiavellian as 9-year-old girls, but boys haven’t quite learned how.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 2, 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

“Well, what in creation is she doing ferrying clapped-out Tiger Moths about, in that case? Give the Bloody Machiavellian English Intelligence Officer a call and get permission,” Jamie suggested.

From "Code Name Verity" by Elizabeth Wein




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