Gambit: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when referring to a calculated risk or opening move that sacrifices something minor to gain a greater advantage, often in games like chess.

• In a daring gambit, she offered her knight early in the game.
• His opening gambit in the negotiation was to concede on price to win on terms.

Use this word when discussing a long-term plan or overarching method to achieve a major goal.

• Her strategy for the business was to focus on quality over quantity.
• We need a new marketing strategy to increase our brand awareness.

Use this word for moves that require skill and dexterity, often in physical or tactical scenarios.

• The driver executed a perfect maneuver to avoid the collision.
• The general's maneuver caught the enemy by surprise.

Use this word for specific actions or steps that are part of a larger strategy, especially in conflict or competition.

• His tactic of flanking the opponent worked well in the match.
• The politician employed diversionary tactics to avoid answering the question.

Used in a strategic context, especially in chess or when referring to an opening strategy designed to gain an advantage by risking something.

• He played an early gambit by sacrificing a pawn to control the center of the board

General term used for any action taken, particularly in games or competitions. It does not necessarily imply a strategic or risky action.

• She made a bold move by investing all her savings in the new startup

Refers to a tactic or maneuver designed to deceive or trick someone. Often has a negative connotation.

• His apology turned out to be just a ploy to win her trust back

Usually implies a detailed and often complex plan, which can sometimes have a negative or underhanded implication.

• The whole scheme to manipulate the stock market was discovered by the authorities

Appropriate in situations involving strategic moves, particularly in chess or tactical conversations. It often suggests a deliberate risk or sacrifice for a future gain.

• His opening gambit in the negotiation was to offer a very low price.
• She made a clever gambit in the chess match, sacrificing her queen for a winning strategy.

Best used when referring to the traits, personality, or moral qualities of a person or fictional entity. Can also refer to a role in a story.

• He has a strong character, always standing up for his beliefs.
• The main character in the novel was a brave young hero.

Used when discussing the image or role that a person presents to others, which might be different from their true self. Often relevant in the context of public figures or in psychology.

• On stage, he adopts the persona of a confident, charismatic leader.
• Her social media persona doesn't reflect her real-life shyness.

Commonly used to describe a person's shape or silhouette, a well-known person, or a numerical value. May refer to someone with significance in a particular field.

• She has maintained a slim figure through regular exercise.
• Albert Einstein is a prominent figure in the field of physics.
• He couldn't believe the figure on his paycheck.