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Ruse: meaning, definitions and examples

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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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "ruse" in other languages:

🇵🇹 truque

🇮🇳 धोखा

🇩🇪 Trick

🇮🇩 tipu

🇺🇦 обман

🇵🇱 oszustwo

🇯🇵 トリック

🇫🇷 ruse

🇪🇸 engaño

🇹🇷 hile

🇰🇷 속임수

🇸🇦 خدعة

🇨🇿 klam

🇸🇰 klamstvo

🇨🇳 骗局

🇸🇮 prevara

🇮🇸 bragð

🇰🇿 алдау

🇬🇪 მოტყუება

🇦🇿 hiylə

🇲🇽 engaño

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.