Artifice: meaning, definitions and examples

Generally used to describe clever or cunning means to achieve something, especially when it's done artfully and skillfully.

• The magician's performance was full of artifice, leaving the audience in awe.
• Her novel's plot was driven by intricate artifice.

Used when referring to the act of causing someone to believe something that is not true, often through lies or misleading information. It usually carries a negative connotation.

• The company's deception about the product's safety caused public outrage.
• He was hurt by her deception when he discovered the truth.

Used to describe the use of tricks or schemes to deceive or manipulate someone. It typically has a negative connotation.

• The politician was accused of trickery during the election campaign.
• He resorted to trickery to avoid paying taxes.

Describes deceitful cunning or cleverness in achieving goals. It often has a negative tone, implying manipulation.

• She used guile to win the trust of her competitors.
• His reputation was based on guile rather than honesty.

Refers to a clever plan or scheme designed to deceive or outwit an opponent or to achieve a particular end.

• The general's stratagem led to a decisive victory.
• She crafted a cunning stratagem to get the promotion.

Artifice is often used when describing a clever trick or a deceptive maneuver. It usually has a negative connotation, implying deceit or cunning.

• His entire story was just an artifice to gain our trust
• The magician's artifice amazed the audience

Ingenuity refers to the ability to invent things or solve problems in clever new ways. It has a positive connotation and is often used to describe creative and innovative thinking.

• Her ingenuity in designing the machine earned her an award
• The children's ingenuity was evident in their imaginative play

Craftiness suggests slyness and deceit, often in achieving one's goals through underhanded means. It carries a more pronounced negative connotation compared to 'cleverness'.

• The fox's craftiness allowed it to evade the hunters
• His craftiness in business often left his competitors outsmarted

Cleverness refers to the quality of being smart and resourceful. It can be used in a general sense and doesn't necessarily have a negative connotation.

• Her cleverness helped her solve the puzzle quickly
• The cleverness of his plan impressed everyone

Skill refers to the ability to do something well, gained through training or experience. It is a neutral term and can be used in various contexts.

• Her skill in painting is remarkable
• The surgeon's skill saved the patient's life