Conspiración vs. complot
The Spanish words 'conspiración' and 'complot' can both be translated to English as 'conspiracy' or 'plot'. Although similar, there are subtle differences in their usage.
Conspiración
'Conspiración' is a noun derived from the verb 'conspirar', which means to plot or conspire. A 'conspiración' refers to the act of arranging or planning (often something harmful or unlawful) with one or more people.
La policía descubrió una conspiración para derrocar al gobierno.
(The police uncovered a conspiracy to overthrow the government.)
Se sospecha de una conspiración dentro de la empresa.
(A conspiracy within the company is suspected.)
Las acusaciones de conspiración aún no han sido probadas.
(The allegations of conspiracy have not yet been proven.)
Complot
'Complot' has a similar overall meaning to 'conspiración', referring to a secret agreement between people to do something unlawful or harmful. However, it especially implies a more secretive and complex plan.
Estuvo involucrado en un complot para asesinar al líder.
(He was involved in a plot to assassinate the leader.)
El complot fracasó debido a la intervención de las autoridades.
(The plot failed due to intervention by authorities.)
Detectives desenmascararon el complot antes de que fuera demasiado tarde.
(Detectives uncovered the plot before it was too late.)
Summary
'Conspiración' and 'complot' both refer to secret plans to do something harmful or unlawful, often involving multiple people. The term 'conspiración' simply refers to such an act, while 'complot' usually suggests a more secretive and complex scheme.