裏うら工こう作さく

noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru', intransitive verb

behind-the-scenes maneuvering; underhanded dealings; monkey business

Refers to secret, often unethical or illegal activities done to achieve a goal, especially in politics, business, or organizations. Can be used as a noun or with する to describe engaging in such activities.

• 選せん挙きょの前まえに裏うら工こう作さくが行おこなわれたと報ほうじられた。

  It was reported that behind-the-scenes maneuvering took place before the election.

• 彼かれは会かい社しゃの乗のっ取とりを狙ねらって裏うら工こう作さくをしている。

  He is engaging in underhanded dealings to take over the company.