Definition
沆瀣一气 is a four-character idiom (chengyu) originating from a Tang dynasty story about two officials named 沆 and 瀣 who were known for colluding. Today it means to act in collusion with someone, typically for dishonest or corrupt purposes. It carries a strong negative connotation and is used to describe people who are kindred spirits in a bad sense.
f.e.
to colludeto be in cahoots (derogatory)to act in concert (for dishonest purposes)
Examples
- 沆瀣一气，。Zhèxiē tān'guān hàng xiè yī qì, gòngtóng qīntūn guójiā cáichǎn.These corrupt officials colluded together to embezzle state property.
- 沆瀣一气，。Tāmen liǎng rén hàng xiè yī qì, héhuǒ qīyā bǎixìng.Those two are in cahoots, jointly oppressing the people.
- 沆瀣一气，。Nà jiā gōngsī yǔ jiānguǎn bùmén hàng xiè yī qì, táobì jiǎnchá.That company colluded with the regulatory department to avoid inspection.
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