What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
contriving
Example
She was contriving a way to get her boss fired. [contriving: verb]
Example
The thief was contriving a plan to rob the bank. [contriving: gerund or present participle]
devise
Example
The engineer devised a new system for recycling waste. [devise: verb]
Example
We need to devise a plan to increase sales. [devise: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Devise is more commonly used than contriving in everyday language. Devise is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while contriving is less common and has a more limited usage.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between contriving and devise?
Devise is generally considered more formal than contriving. While devise can be used in both formal and informal contexts, contriving is often used in informal or colloquial language and may not be appropriate in more formal settings.
