What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
perfidy
Example
His perfidy was revealed when he leaked confidential information to the press. [perfidy: noun]
Example
She was shocked by the perfidy of her best friend, who had been secretly spreading rumors about her. [perfidy: noun]
deceit
Example
He was caught in his deceit when his lies were exposed by the evidence. [deceit: noun]
Example
She resented his deceitful behavior when he pretended to be someone else to gain her trust. [deceitful: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deceit is more commonly used than perfidy in everyday language, as it is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts. Perfidy is less common and more formal, and is typically used in legal or political contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between perfidy and deceit?
Perfidy is a more formal term than deceit, and is often used in legal or political contexts to describe a breach of trust or loyalty. Deceit is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts to describe any act of dishonesty or trickery.
