Definition

Noun: 1. The systematic use of spies to obtain secret information, especially for military, political, or industrial purposes. It involves the covert collection of confidential data without the permission of the holder of the information.

Usage

The word "espionage" is an uncountable noun. It refers to the overall activity or practice of spying, not to a single act or a single spy. It is often used in contexts involving national security, international relations, and corporate competition.

Examples

• The agent was arrested and charged with espionage against the state.
• During the Cold War, espionage between the superpowers was rampant.
• The company accused its competitor of industrial espionage to steal its new technology.
• The novel is a thrilling story of international espionage and intrigue.

Advanced Usage

• "To engage in espionage": This phrase is used to describe the act of carrying out spying activities.
  • The diplomat was suspected of engaging in espionage under the cover of his official position.
• Espionage is often modified by adjectives to specify its type, such as , , , or .

Variants and Related Words

• Spy (noun): A person who secretly collects and reports information on the activities, movements, and plans of an enemy or competitor.
• Spy (verb): To work as a spy; to collect secret information.
• Intelligence (noun): In this context, it refers to the collected information, often gathered through espionage.
• Counterespionage (noun): Activities designed to detect and counteract enemy espionage.

Synonyms

• Spying
• Intelligence gathering
• Reconnaissance (often more military-focused)
• Surveillance (can be a broader term for observation)

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "Espionage ring": A network or group of spies working together.
  • The authorities dismantled a major espionage ring operating in the capital.
• "Espionage charges": Legal accusations of committing espionage.
  • He faces life in prison if convicted on espionage charges.

Noun

1. the systematic use of spies to get military or political secrets