have illicit relations; be involved with
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesverb
to be involved with (bad people or criminal activities)
literaryTypically used in negative contexts to indicate association with criminal elements, corruption, or undesirable groups. Often appears in formal or journalistic writing.
He was involved with the underworld and was eventually arrested by the police.
Those who get involved with drug cartels come to no good end.
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If officials are involved with criminal forces, they will surely face legal sanctions.
verb
to have an illicit sexual relationship
literaryA euphemistic and literary way to refer to extramarital affairs or improper sexual relations. Carries a formal, often moralistic tone.
According to rumors, she had an affair with that businessman.
In ancient times, having an illicit relationship with a married woman was a serious crime.
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The two of them had been involved for a long time; it's just that outsiders didn't know.