ENGLISH
REFERENCE

shenanigans

n. plural-only
C1 Advanced US //ʃəˈnænɪɡənz// UK //ʃɪnˈænɪɡənz// shenani·gans

n. silly or dishonest behavior that is often meant to trick people. You use this when someone is being playful or slightly naughty.

n. secret or dishonest activities that are often mischievous or deceitful. Frequently implies a playful or chaotic disregard for rules.


SIMPLE

The children were up to their usual shenanigans in the garden.

CONTEXTUAL

The investigation revealed financial shenanigans designed to hide the company's growing debt from its investors.

COMPLEX

While the public enjoyed the political shenanigans during the debate, serious analysts were concerned about the lack of substantive policy discussion.

Synonyms
Origin

From shenanigan + -s.

Usage

Pluralia tantum — takes a plural verb and is rarely used in the singular form.

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