# espionage

/ˈɛspiənɑdʒ/ (US) · /ˈɛspɪənˌɑːʒ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/espionage
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

the secret work of spying to find out information about another country or a competing company. It usually involves people working undercover to steal secrets.

For teachers: the practice of spying or using spies, typically by governments to obtain political or military information. Often involves the systematic use of clandestine methods to gain a competitive advantage.

## Examples

- He was arrested and charged with industrial espionage.
- The government increased its cybersecurity budget to protect national secrets from foreign espionage and digital hacking attempts.
- While traditional espionage relied on human intelligence and physical infiltration, modern statecraft increasingly prioritizes signals intelligence and the exploitation of encrypted communication networks.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable; frequently modified by adjectives like 'industrial', 'corporate', or 'international'.

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