1
as in devising
to create or think of by clever use of the imagination
contrived abstract metal sculptures using old household utensils
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2
as in plotting
to engage in a secret plan to accomplish evil or unlawful ends
the mischievous boys were always contriving and trying to pull the prank that would be the talk of the school
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3
as in negotiating
to plan out usually with subtle skill or care
contrived a way of planning the surprise party without their catching on to it
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Examples Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contriving
Verb
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Developing looks for clients who have brand contracts and relationships isn’t just about devising a beautiful image, but working with everybody involved, from the designer to the actress, to create a special moment.—
Emily Mercer,
WWD,
3 Jan. 2025 -
The quarterback is making his first college start, and Bobo is devising a game plan around Stockton’s dual-threat abilities rather than Carson Beck’s strong pocket passing.—
Seth Emerson,
The Athletic,
31 Dec. 2024
Verb
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Additionally, financing customers from your own balance sheet can strain resources, while negotiating credit facilities often involves lengthy and intricate processes.—
Ashish Srimal,
Forbes,
27 Dec. 2024
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Sources said the switch allowed parties involved in the transaction to renegotiate their part, with the various players negotiating concessions to stay in the transaction, causing a bit of a behind-the-scenes hubbub as the finish line approached.—
David Moin,
WWD,
26 Dec. 2024
Verb
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Automate savings, where possible Automated changes, like increasing workplace 401(k) plan contributions, setting up direct deposits from paychecks into dedicated savings accounts, and arranging for monthly transfers into an IRA and/or 529 college savings accounts all add up quickly, McBride said.—
Cora Lewis and Adriana Morga,
Los Angeles Times,
5 Jan. 2025
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The trailer for With Love, Meghan was released two weeks ahead of the show's premiere and features the Duchess performing a number of activities from tending to a beehive to arranging flowers at a shop and hosting a mix of friends and celebrity guests.—
Rebecca Aizin,
People.com,
3 Jan. 2025
Verb
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Stroh’s Ice Cream, a Detroit ice cream company that closed in 2007, is widely credited with inventing the funky flavor.—
Jalen Williams,
Detroit Free Press,
22 Dec. 2024
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American industry will keep inventing and keep investing.—
Kelly Livingston,
ABC News,
19 Dec. 2024
Verb
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Stop motion is so time-consuming — days of manipulating puppets one frame at a time for a few seconds of footage — that no animator wants to do reshoots.—
Peter Debruge,
Variety,
7 Jan. 2025
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The majority is manipulating a personal tragedy to scapegoat immigrants.—
Kevin Lynn,
Newsweek,
7 Jan. 2025
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Thesaurus Entries Near contriving
Cite this Entry
“Contriving.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contriving. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.
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