What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
flimflam
Example
The salesman's flimflam tactics were exposed when customers realized the product didn't work. [flimflam: noun]
Example
He tried to flimflam his way out of the situation by making up an excuse. [flimflam: verb]
scam
Example
The email was a scam, and the sender was trying to steal personal information. [scam: noun]
Example
She realized she had been scammed when she received a fake product in the mail. [scammed: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scam is more commonly used than flimflam in everyday language. Scam is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while flimflam is less common and is often used in specific contexts, such as entertainment or comedy.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between flimflam and scam?
Scam is a more formal term than flimflam and is appropriate for use in both formal and informal contexts. Flimflam, on the other hand, is more informal and is typically used in casual or humorous situations.