What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
feint
Example
The boxer used a feint to distract his opponent before landing a powerful punch. [feint: noun]
Example
She feinted left and then right to confuse the defender before scoring a goal. [feinted: past tense verb]
ploy
Example
His ploy to distract the security guard with small talk allowed him to sneak into the building unnoticed. [ploy: noun]
Example
She used a clever ploy to get her boss to approve her vacation request. [ploy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ploy is more commonly used than feint in everyday language, especially in formal or business contexts. Feint is more specific and less common, primarily used in sports or combat.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between feint and ploy?
Ploy is generally considered more formal than feint, as it is often used in business or strategic contexts. Feint is more informal and associated with sports or combat situations.
