in cahoots [with]
Definition
The meaning: In cahoots means to be secretly working together, often in a dishonest or suspicious way.
La signification: L'expression anglaise in cahoots, qui signifie "de connivence" ou "en complicité", est utilisée lorsque deux personnes ou plus collaborent secrètement, souvent dans une intention douteuse. Par exemple, si deux employés manipulent les chiffres d’une entreprise, on peut dire qu’ils sont "in cahoots".
Note: Cette expression est fréquemment utilisée pour suggérer une alliance secrète et potentiellement malhonnête.
Word Analysis
French synonyms
» De connivence
» En complicité
» Main dans la main
» Liés dans une affaire louche
A: Tu crois qu’ils ont volé cet argent ensemble ?
B: C’est clair qu’ils étaient de mèche.
English synonyms
» In alliance
» Working together (secretly)
» Colluding
» Partners in crime
A: Why did both of them lie about the meeting?
B: I think they’re in cahoots.
Dialogue
Leo: "The manager and the supplier always seem to agree suspiciously fast."
Sophie: "Sounds like they might be in cahoots!"
Etymology
Origin: The phrase in cahoots likely comes from the French word cahute, meaning a hut or cabin, suggesting people hiding or working together in secret. It emerged in American English in the 19th century to describe conspiratorial cooperation.
Audience
The phrase "in cahoots" is common in spoken English, particularly in informal contexts, and often carries a slightly humorous or suspicious tone.
When to use: Use this phrase when suggesting that people are secretly working together — especially in ways that are sneaky or dishonest. Example: "Those two always blame others — I think they’re in cahoots."
Dictionary Meaning
The Free Dictionary says that it means "In close, often secretive or conspiratorial cooperation with someone." Here's a provided example of use:
"I think all of those kids are in cahoots because they're all on the surveillance video from the night of the robbery."
News Snippet
"Some of these officials have political and social networks with key local party politicians who are in cahoots with business people outside the municipality. Complicit officials often enjoy political protection from local party officials, as they can facilitate irregular appointments and payments to contractors with whom they are closely associated."
Read the full article at the Daily Maverick
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Common Idioms & Expressions Related to "In Cahoots"
In Cahoots
To be in partnership or collusion with someone, often implying secrecy or wrongdoing.
Example: "They were found to be in cahoots with each other to cheat the system."
In League With
To be allied or working together with someone, often for a common goal or purpose.
Example: "The two companies are in league with each other to dominate the market."
Colluding
To secretly cooperate or conspire with others for an illegal or deceitful purpose.
Example: "The officials were accused of colluding to fix the election."
Working Hand in Hand
To work together closely with someone towards a common goal, often in a positive context.
Example: "The charity is working hand in hand with local businesses to help the community."
In Tandem
To work together with someone or something in a coordinated manner.
Example: "The two departments are working in tandem to improve efficiency."
In Conspiracy
To be involved in a secret plan to do something unlawful or harmful.
Example: "They were charged with being in conspiracy to commit fraud."
On the Same Page
To have a shared understanding or agreement with others about something.
Example: "Before we proceed, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page."
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