Finagled: meaning, definitions and examples
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finagled
[ fəˈneɪɡl ]
informal usage
To finagle means to achieve something by indirect or dishonest means. It often implies that the individual used clever tricks or manipulative tactics to get what they wanted. The term has a playful connotation, suggesting a sort of cunning resourcefulness rather than outright malevolence. People often finagle their way into situations where they are not strictly entitled to be.
Synonyms
coax, hustle, manipulate, scheme
Examples of usage
- She managed to finagle her way into the exclusive party.
- He finagled a free meal at the restaurant by charming the waiter.
- They finagled a last-minute deal on the car.
- With a bit of charm, she finagled an upgrade on her flight.
Translations
Translations of the word "finagled" in other languages:
🇵🇹 manipulado
🇮🇳 चालाकी से हासिल किया
🇩🇪 manipuliert
🇮🇩 menipu
🇺🇦 вивернути
🇵🇱 wykiwać
🇯🇵 ごまかす
🇫🇷 manipulé
🇪🇸 manipulado
🇹🇷 manipüle etmek
🇰🇷 교묘하게 얻다
🇸🇦 تحايل
🇨🇿 manipulováno
🇸🇰 manipulované
🇨🇳 操控
🇸🇮 manipulirano
🇮🇸 manipulera
🇰🇿 манипуляция жасау
🇬🇪 მანიპულირება
🇦🇿 manipulyasiya etmək
🇲🇽 manipulado
Etymology
The word 'finagle' is believed to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century, possibly derived from the earlier term 'fain', which means to do something willingly or gladly. The exact etymology is unclear, but it is often associated with the informal speech of the time, capturing a sense of crafty, clever maneuvering. The usage of 'finagle' rose with the increasing influence of American colloquialisms and the growing cultural appreciation for cunning in negotiation and social interactions. By the early 20th century, it had entered everyday language, signifying a blend of charm and trickery. Over the years, it has retained a slight humorous or light-hearted tone, making it a popular term in informal contexts.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #41,239, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.