What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
skulduggery
Example
The company was involved in financial skulduggery to avoid paying taxes. [skulduggery: noun]
Example
The politician was accused of skulduggery in his campaign tactics. [skulduggery: noun]
chicanery
Example
The businessman was known for his chicanery in negotiating deals. [chicanery: noun]
Example
The lawyer was accused of using chicanery to win the case. [chicanery: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Chicanery is more commonly used than skulduggery in everyday language, especially in American English.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between skulduggery and chicanery?
Both skulduggery and chicanery are formal words that are typically used in serious or professional contexts.