Intrigue Meaning
Intrigue Definition & Usage
To cause someone to become interested or curious about something in a way that is mysterious or secretive.
Examples
- "The novel’s complex plot intrigued me from the first page."
- "Her mysterious smile intrigued him, making him wonder what she was thinking."
- "The story of the ancient artifact intrigued historians for centuries."
- "His sudden departure left me intrigued about the reasons behind it."
- "The unexpected twist in the movie intrigued the audience, keeping them on edge until the end."
To secretly make plans, often involving manipulation or deceit, to achieve a personal goal.
Examples
- "The conspirators were accused of intriguing against the government."
- "She was suspected of intriguing to take over the company from within."
- "In the court of the king, many nobles were constantly intriguing for power."
- "The diplomat intrigued to weaken the alliance through misinformation."
- "They were caught intriguing to sabotage the project by spreading false rumors."
A secretive or deceitful scheme, often for manipulation or personal gain.
Examples
- "The intrigue at the palace was thick with suspicion and deceit."
- "His life was filled with political intrigue, as he maneuvered through complex alliances."
- "The novel is full of intrigue, with characters scheming behind each other's backs."
- "In the spy world, intrigue is a common part of the game."
- "The plot was full of intrigue, with unexpected twists and secret deals."
Cultural Context
The word 'intrigue' has historically been associated with political maneuvering and courtly schemes, particularly in the context of monarchies and empires where power struggles were common. In literature and cinema, intrigue often refers to complex, secretive plots that manipulate and deceive others for power or control.
The Mask of Deception
Story
The Mask of Deception
In a grand city nestled between two mountains, there lived a brilliant but secretive inventor named Elias. Known for his enigmatic designs and quiet demeanor, Elias intrigued those who crossed his path. Most of the town’s folk thought him harmless, an odd man with a peculiar mind, but few knew the truth—Elias was a master of intrigue, weaving elaborate plots behind closed doors. His latest creation, a device that could change the fate of nations, was nearing completion. But his rival, Victor, also had his eyes on it, willing to do anything to steal it from him. The game of intrigue between the two men grew ever more intense, with each one plotting in secrecy. It wasn’t just a battle of intellect—it was a battle for control of a future neither man fully understood. Elias knew that in a world where secrets ruled, only those who could manipulate others would rise to the top. Victor had always been fascinated by Elias's work, and at first, his admiration had been genuine. But as time passed, his fascination turned into envy, and finally into a calculated intrigue. He studied Elias's every move, listening for the slightest hint that might give him an edge. One night, as the rain poured outside, Elias received a letter—a cryptic message suggesting that his most trusted ally had betrayed him. Intrigued, he turned his attention to his inner circle, wondering who among them might be plotting against him. The truth, when it came, was as complex as the invention itself. Elias discovered that the intrigue surrounding him was not only the result of Victor’s schemes but also the collective efforts of many others who had seen his work as a threat. As the plot unraveled, Elias faced a difficult decision: protect his invention at any cost or expose the truth and risk losing everything. In the end, it was his understanding of the power of intrigue, and the way it could shape the future, that guided his choice.
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