The phrase "are cahoots with" is an idiomatic expression that means two or more people are planning or scheming together. The phonetic spelling of "cahoots" is [kəˈhuːts]. The first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound, followed by a long "u" sound. The word is spelled with two "o's", but the second "o" is silent. The "ts" at the end is pronounced as "ts", creating a sharp, hissing sound. Knowing the correct spelling and pronunciation of words like "cahoots" can help improve communication and understanding.
To be "in cahoots with" someone means to collude or conspire with them, often in a dishonest or secretive manner. This colloquial expression emphasizes an illicit partnership or collaboration, implying a sense of secrecy or wrongdoing. The phrase often suggests an alliance between two or more individuals, organizations, or parties for the purpose of deception, fraud, or other questionable activities.
When individuals are said to be "in cahoots with" each other, it implies a close association or collaboration towards a shared objective, often at the expense of others or in a manner that is morally dubious. This phrase is typically used to highlight a degree of complicity or conspiracy between the parties involved.
The term "cahoots" itself originates from the early 19th century American English slang, with its precise etymology uncertain. It conveys the idea of a secret partnership or collaboration, usually to achieve an unscrupulous or unethical goal.
The phrase "are in cahoots with" may be used to describe a variety of scenarios, such as two individuals scheming to commit a crime, businesses conspiring to manipulate prices or engage in anticompetitive practices, or even corrupt politicians colluding to abuse their power. It ultimately denotes an agreement or association where mutual cooperation is intended for selfish or illicit purposes.