What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deceit
Example
She was caught in a web of deceit after lying about her qualifications. [deceit: noun]
Example
He deceitfully convinced his friend to lend him money. [deceitfully: adverb]
duplicity
Example
The politician's duplicity was exposed when he was caught making contradictory statements. [duplicity: noun]
Example
She spoke with duplicity, pretending to be friendly while secretly plotting against her colleague. [duplicity: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deceit is more commonly used than duplicity in everyday language, and it covers a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between deceit and duplicity?
Both deceit and duplicity are formal words that are typically used in serious or professional contexts, such as legal or business settings.
