Words / C1

k-uh-LOOZHN/kəˈluːʒn/

Collusion is a secret agreement to deceive or cheat: collusion between two firms, in collusion with. Cooperation is open and often positive; conspiracy is a close, heavier cousin; a stitch-up is informal British. Collude is the verb. In speech, a secret deal to cheat is enough. Collusion implies dishonesty, not ordinary teamwork — do not call a joint lesson collusion unless there is deceit.

Meaning

Secret agreement to deceive or cheat.

Examples

• “There was collusion between the two companies.”
• “Investigators found collusion between the two bidders on the contract.”
• “They were not cooperating; they were in collusion, and the marks showed it.”

Good to know

Secret dishonest agreement. Verb: collude. in collusion with. Everyday: a secret deal to cheat. Close: conspiracy. Contrast: open cooperation.

Near in meaning

conspiracy

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