Frauds: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe actions where someone deceives others to gain a financial or personal advantage. Often used in legal contexts.

• The company was involved in multiple frauds that cost investors millions.
• Financial frauds are becoming increasingly sophisticated.

Refers broadly to the act of deceiving someone. It can be used in a wide range of contexts, from personal relationships to business.

• Her entire relationship was built on deception.
• The company's deception was eventually exposed.

A colloquial term used to describe a dishonest scheme or plan, particularly one intended to deceive people out of money.

• She fell victim to an online scam.
• Beware of scams when shopping online.

Generally used to describe a situation where someone cheats another person out of money or property. Implies a more elaborate and malicious intent.

• The old man was swindled out of his life savings.
• They ran a real estate swindle that duped many investors.

Commonly used when someone breaks rules or behaves dishonestly to gain an advantage, often in games, exams, or relationships.

• He was caught trying to cheat on the exam.
• It's not nice to cheat during card games.

Used to describe actions or schemes that are intended to deceive others, often for financial gain. Can refer to both people and actions.

• The company fell victim to multiple frauds last year.
• He was involved in several frauds that defrauded investors out of millions.

Used to describe someone who pretends to be someone else, often to gain some advantage or to deceive people. The term always carries a negative implication.

• The impostor managed to infiltrate the organization.
• He was exposed as an impostor after claiming to be a famous author.

Used to refer to someone who falsely claims to have special knowledge or skills, often in a professional or medical field. The term has a negative connotation.

• The charlatan pretended to be a famous psychiatrist.
• People soon realized he was just a charlatan with no real expertise.

Used to describe a person who lies or tricks people, often causing them to believe something that is not true. This term is general and can be used in various contexts.

• She felt betrayed when she discovered he was a deceiver.
• The deceiver had everyone fooled with his charming personality.

Used to describe someone or something that is fake or fraudulent. This term can be used in a more casual setting and often refers to a lack of genuineness.

• She realized the designer handbag was a phony.
• His accent sounded phony, like he was trying too hard.