gamesmanship Definition
the use of methods, especially in a sports contest, that are not strictly illegal but are adopted to gain an unfair advantage over an opponent.
Using gamesmanship: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "gamesmanship" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The player was accused of gamesmanship for taking too long to serve.
Example
The team's coach was known for his clever gamesmanship tactics.
Example
His gamesmanship skills helped him win the match.
gamesmanship Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for gamesmanship
- strategy
- maneuvering
- tactics
Phrases with gamesmanship
mental gamesmanship
the use of psychological tactics to gain an advantage over an opponent
Example
The athlete's mental gamesmanship helped her stay focused during the competition.
the use of political tactics to gain an advantage over an opponent
Example
The politician's political gamesmanship helped him win the election.
the use of media tactics to gain an advantage over an opponent
Example
The company's media gamesmanship helped it gain more customers.
Origins of gamesmanship
from 'game' + 'manship', coined by Stephen Potter in his book 'The Theory and Practice of Gamesmanship' (1947)
Summary: gamesmanship in Brief
The term 'gamesmanship' [geymz-muh n-ship] refers to the use of methods, especially in sports, that are not strictly illegal but are adopted to gain an unfair advantage over an opponent. It includes tactics like mental gamesmanship, political gamesmanship, and media gamesmanship. The term is often used in a negative context, implying trickery or cheating.
