What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
feint
Example
The boxer made a feint to the left before landing a punch on his opponent's right side. [feint: noun]
Example
She feinted a smile to hide her disappointment. [feinted: verb]
ruse
Example
He used a ruse to get past the security guard and enter the building. [ruse: noun]
Example
She pretended to be sick as a ruse to avoid going to the party. [ruse: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ruse is more commonly used than feint in everyday language. Ruse is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while feint is more specific to sports or combat.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between feint and ruse?
Both feint and ruse are formal words that are typically used in serious or professional contexts, such as sports, combat, or business.
