Words / C2

SUBT-uh-fyooj/ˈsʌbtəfjuːdʒ/

Subterfuge is a trick or dishonest method used to achieve something: use subterfuge to skip a queue. Trick is everyday; deception is broader; ruse is a close synonym. Formal. In speech, a trick or a dodge is enough. It names the method, not a personality trait (that might be duplicitous). A white lie can be subterfuge; so can a fake identity — scale varies, dishonesty does not.

Meaning

A trick or dishonest method used to achieve something (formal).

Examples

• “They used subterfuge to skip the queue.”
• “They used subterfuge to enter the closed stack: a borrowed staff badge.”
• “Humour was not subterfuge; the missing data still had to be explained.”

Good to know

A deceptive trick (formal). Everyday: trick / dodge. Close: ruse. Method of deceit, not the adjective duplicitous.

Near in meaning

ruse

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