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Cook the books

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Crime Suggestion

Suggests illegal activity without stating it outright; used to imply fraudulent financial manipulation.

Illustration for Crime Suggestion
When he said they might need to 'cook the books,' I knew he wasn't suggesting actual cooking.
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Negative Connotation

Has a negative meaning and is used to talk about dishonest activities.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
After the scandal, everyone knew they had been cooking the books for years.
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Business Context

Most commonly used in business or financial contexts, often involving company accounts.

Illustration for Business Context
The accountant was fired for cooking the books and misrepresenting the company's earnings.
Visual representation of the word "Cook the books"

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