What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
subterfuge
Example
The politician used subterfuge to avoid answering the question directly. [subterfuge: noun]
Example
She employed subterfuge to get out of trouble with her parents. [subterfuge: verb]
trickery
Example
The magician's performance was full of trickery and illusions. [trickery: noun]
Example
He resorted to trickery to win the game. [trickery: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Trickery is more commonly used than subterfuge in everyday language. Trickery is a more versatile term that covers a wider range of contexts, while subterfuge is less common and more specific to certain situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between subterfuge and trickery?
Subterfuge is generally considered more formal than trickery. It is often used in academic or legal contexts to describe deceptive tactics or strategies, while trickery is more informal and can be used in everyday conversation.
