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Ruse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ruse

[ruːz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

deception

A ruse is a trick or a plan that is used to deceive someone.

Synonyms

ploy, scheme, trick.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ruse

This word is used to describe a clever plan or action intended to deceive someone.

  • The fox devised a cunning ruse to escape the hunters.
  • He used an elaborate ruse to distract his opponents during the game.
trick

A general term for an action intended to deceive or cheat someone, can be light-hearted or malicious depending on context.

  • He played a trick on his friend by hiding his keys.
  • The magician's trick left everyone in awe.
ploy

This term commonly describes a tactic or strategy used to gain an advantage, often in business or competitive situations.

  • The salesperson's ploy to offer a limited-time discount worked flawlessly on the customers.
  • Her latest ploy to get promoted involved taking on extra projects.
scheme

Typically used to describe a complex and often dishonest plan, which can be perceived negatively.

  • The criminals devised an intricate scheme to rob the bank.
  • She was implicated in a scheme to falsify financial records.

Examples of usage

  • She thought his offer of help was just a ruse to get her to talk.
  • The enemy soldiers used a clever ruse to sneak past the guards.
Context #2 | Noun

strategy

A ruse can also refer to a clever and deceitful plan or strategy used to achieve a goal.

Synonyms

maneuver, ploy, tactic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ruse

A ruse is often used to intentionally deceive someone, typically in a clever or crafty manner. This word usually has a negative connotation.

  • The burglar used a ruse to distract the guard.
  • It was just a ruse to get her to leave the house.
tactic

Tactic generally refers to a planned action or strategy designed to achieve a specific goal, often used in the context of business, games, or competitions.

  • The company's new marketing tactic increased sales by 20%.
  • In chess, each move needs to be a well-thought-out tactic.
maneuver

A maneuver is typically a planned or skillful movement or series of movements. It is often used in contexts like military operations, sports, or complex situations where strategic planning is involved.

  • The general executed a brilliant maneuver to outflank the enemy.
  • She performed a complicated maneuver during the skating competition.
ploy

A ploy is a clever or cunning plan designed to achieve a particular end, often by manipulating or deceiving someone. This word can sometimes carry a negative implication.

  • His offer to help was just a ploy to get her trust.
  • The salesman's ploy was to lure customers with false discounts.

Examples of usage

  • The politician's ruse to win the election involved spreading false rumors about his opponent.
  • The company's ruse to increase sales involved offering fake discounts.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's 'Othello,' a ruse is used to manipulate characters and drive the plot forward.
  • Classic literature often features characters who employ ruses to achieve their goals, showcasing themes of cunning and intelligence.
  • The use of ruses can symbolize deeper moral questions about honesty and integrity in storytelling.

Psychology

  • People often use ruses to protect themselves or achieve their desires without direct confrontation.
  • Studies show that knowing when to recognize a ruse can enhance critical thinking and strategic planning skills.
  • The ability to concoct and detect ruses relates to social intelligence and can influence interpersonal relationships.

Pop Culture

  • Many movies and TV shows feature cunning characters who use ruses as a central plot device, like in heist films.
  • Animated series often showcase ruses played by characters for comedic effect, emphasizing creativity in deception.
  • Magic shows frequently involve ruses that amaze audiences, blurring the line between reality and illusion.

History

  • Throughout history, military leaders have used ruses to mislead enemies and gain strategic advantages.
  • Famous historical figures, like Sun Tzu, emphasized the importance of deception in warfare, advocating for strategic ruses.
  • In ancient Rome, political maneuvering often involved ruses to outsmart rivals and gain power.

Origin of 'ruse'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'rusa,' which means 'to deceive' or 'to trick.'
  • It has been used in English since the 15th century, originally to refer to tricks used in play or jest.
  • The evolution of the term reflects society's fascination with cleverness and deceit in various forms.

The word 'ruse' originated from the French word 'ruser', which means 'to dodge' or 'to clear out'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. The concept of using deception or trickery as a strategy has been prevalent throughout history, with various military leaders and politicians employing ruses to gain an advantage over their opponents.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,011, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.