conspiracy - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
conspiracy Word Meanings
- a secret plan by a group to do something unlawful
- a plot or scheme
- a collaboration towards a hidden purpose
conspiracy Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
conspiracy Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kənˈspɪr.ə.si/
US
/kənˈspɪr.ə.si/
conspiracy Word Etymology
con- = together + spirare = to breathe. Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a group of people huddled together, whispering and breathing secrets, plotting beneath a moonlit sky.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
Starting with a simple tilt of the desk chair, I move closer and watch ideas slide into place. A conspiracy begins to feel like a hidden plan among a few people, a thread I pull at and push aside as I test it in my mind. I adjust the tempo of questions, switch the pieces, and hold back some details to see what threads hold. The air tightens and the word settles in not as a definition but as the sense of a secret working together in the dark.
Real Context
Conspiracy refers to a secret plan by a group to do something unlawful or harmful, often involving plotting in secret and coordinating actions. It can describe a formal scheme or a casual scheme, and is frequently used with phrases like conspiracy to commit a crime, or to hatch a conspiracy. The term is common in news coverage, court proceedings, and fiction, and it is often paired with conspiracy theory when people speculate about hidden motives. In everyday English you might talk about a government conspiracy, a corporate conspiracy, or a conspiratorial group at work, while emphasizing the collaborative aspect rather than a single villain. Remember that conspiracy is countable: one conspiracy, several conspiracies.
Usage Reminders
- 1. Conspiracy is a noun, not a verb. 2. Use a conspiracy to commit a crime, not conspire a crime. 3. Pair with conspiracy theory in discussions of hidden motives. 4. Plural is conspiracies. 5. Pronounce /kənˈspɪrəsi/ and stress the second syllable.
Common Misconceptions
- Conspiracy = a crime by one person; usually it is a group
- Conspiracy = conspiracy theory
- Conspiracy = a minor or casual plan
- Conspiracy cannot be used with governments or big organizations
- Conspiracy is always illegal or harmful
Thinking Differences
Think of conspiracy as a formal, organized plan by a group to achieve a harmful end; English favors 협력 and collective action terms; mistakes often involve assuming many conspiracies imply criminal intent in casual talk.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations (conspiracy to commit a crime, be involved in a conspiracy)
- Practice with 'conspiracy theory' vs 'conspiracy' in context
- Pronounce the second syllable clearly: con-SPI-ra-cy
- Read news and fiction to see varied uses
- Create sentences about groups or organizations
- Review plural form conspiracies and related nouns
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'conspiracy'?
A.A musical instrument
B.An unexpected event
C.A type of fruit
D.A plan to achieve a goal
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'conspiracy' used correctly?
A.She found a conspiracy in her birthday party
B.They were accused of conspiracy to commit a crime
C.The conspiracy of birds chirping woke him up
D.He played a conspiracy during the game
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'conspiracy'?
A.Transparency
B.Honesty
C.Collaboration
D.Isolation
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'conspiracy'?
A.Calmness
B.Serenity
C.Unity
D.Harmony
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context might you hear the word 'conspiracy'?
A.Watching a comedy show
B.Planting a garden
C.Discussing a political scandal
D.Cooking a recipe
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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