persuade someone to do or believe something by lying or deceiving them, a disadvantage or negative aspect of something, a trick or deception

long con, con artist, pros and cons

Formal and Informal Expressions of con

In different contexts, you can replace 'con' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'deceive, trick' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'scam, rip off' is a commonplace synonym.

con: Explore its Definition & Usage

con Definition

1persuade someone to do or believe something by lying or deceiving them
2a disadvantage or negative aspect of something
3a trick or deception

Using con: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "con" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He conned me into giving him my money.
Example
The con of living in the city is the high cost of living.
Example
It was all a con to get her to reveal her secrets.

con Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for con

Antonyms for con

Phrases with con

long con
a complex and elaborate scheme designed to deceive and defraud over a long period of time
Example
The long con involved several people and took months to execute.
con artist
a person who uses deception to cheat or defraud others for personal gain
Example
The con artist convinced the elderly woman to give him her life savings.
pros and cons
the advantages and disadvantages of something
Example
Before making a decision, it's important to consider the pros and cons.

Origins of con

shortened form of 'confidence trick'

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Summary: con in Brief

The term 'con' [kɒn] can be used as a verb or noun. As a verb, it means to persuade someone to do or believe something by lying or deceiving them. As a noun, it refers to a disadvantage or negative aspect of something, or a trick or deception. Examples include 'He conned me into giving him my money' and 'The con of living in the city is the high cost of living.' Phrases like 'long con' and 'pros and cons' extend its usage.