Term: Machiavellianism

Machiavellianism (noun) /ˌmækiəˈvɛliənɪzəm/:

1. The use of clever but often dishonest methods that deceive people so that you can win power or control. LV: makiavelisms (viltīga, negodprātīga rīcība mērķu sasniegšanai).
2. In psychology, a personality trait characterized by being manipulative, focused on self-interest, and having a lack of emotion or morality. LV: makiavelisms (psiholoģisks tips).

Example sentences:

1. The CEO was criticized for his Machiavellianism in secretly removing his competitors from the board.
2. In the political thriller, the main character uses pure Machiavellianism to rise from an advisor to the president.
3. Her Machiavellianism made it difficult for her colleagues to trust her, as she always seemed to have a hidden agenda.

Common phrases:

• Machiavellian tactics: Strategic moves that are cunning and often lack a moral compass.”He used Machiavellian tactics to win the election by spreading false rumors about his opponent.”
• High Mach: A psychological term for someone who scores very high on the scale of Machiavellian traits.”As a high Mach individual, he was very effective at negotiating deals where he took all the profit.”
• Political Machiavellianism: The practice of using any means necessary, however unethical, to maintain political power.”The history book describes the political Machiavellianism used by European kings in the 16th century.”