Stratagem Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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stratagem

[หˆstrรฆt.ษ™.dส’ษ™m ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

warfare

A plan or scheme, especially one used to outwit an opponent or achieve an end.

Synonyms

maneuver, plan, scheme, tactic.

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Word Description / Examples
stratagem

Used when referring to a clever or sneaky plan designed to outwit an opponent or achieve a goal, often implying cunning.

  • They came up with a brilliant stratagem to outsmart their rivals.
  • Her stratagem to win the game involved misleading her opponent.
scheme

Often implies a secret or dishonest plan, carrying a negative connotation.

  • The CEO was caught in a scheme to embezzle funds.
  • They uncovered a scheme to cheat on the exam.
plan

Used in everyday contexts to describe a detailed proposal for achieving something. It is a broad term that can be applied to various situations.

  • Let's make a plan for our trip next month.
  • She devised a plan to improve her fitness routine.
tactic

Best used when referring to an action or strategy carefully planned to achieve a specific end, often in competitive situations.

  • His defensive tactic helped the team avoid a loss.
  • She employed a clever tactic to win the negotiations.
maneuver

Appropriate in contexts where skillful or strategic movement or action is involved, often in a physical or military sense.

  • The general's maneuver led the troops to a favorable position.
  • He executed a delicate maneuver to avoid the oncoming traffic.

Examples of usage

  • He was known for his clever stratagems on the battlefield.
  • The general devised a brilliant stratagem to surprise the enemy.
  • Their success was due to a series of well-executed stratagems.
Context #2 | Noun

general

A cleverly contrived trick or scheme for gaining an end.

Synonyms

gambit, ploy, ruse, trick.

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Word Description / Examples
stratagem

A well-thought-out plan or scheme designed for achieving a specific end, often in a competitive or adversarial situation.

  • The general devised a clever stratagem to outmaneuver the enemy forces.
  • Her stratagem to win the game involved distracting her opponent at a crucial moment.
trick

A specific act or method used to deceive someone, often considered to be somewhat dishonest or playful. It can be used in both negative and lighthearted contexts.

  • He played a trick on her by hiding her keys.
  • The magician's trick left the audience in awe.
ploy

A tactic or maneuver designed to gain an advantage, often by slightly deceptive means. It is usually used in a more casual or everyday context.

  • Her ploy to avoid doing homework was pretending to be sick.
  • The advertisement was just a ploy to get customers into the store.
ruse

A deceitful trick or act intended to mislead or deceive someone.

  • The thief used a ruse to distract the guard while his partner stole the jewels.
  • It was all a ruse to make us think he was out of town.
gambit

A calculated move or tactic, especially one that involves some risk or sacrifice, used to gain an advantage in a game or situation.

  • Asking a question to start the negotiation was an interesting gambit.
  • In chess, he made a bold gambit by sacrificing his queen early in the game.

Examples of usage

  • She employed a stratagem to get the information she needed.
  • The politician's stratagem to win the election was successful.
  • His stratagem involved a series of carefully orchestrated moves.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Military History

  • Used extensively in warfare, stratagems have influenced great battles throughout history.
  • Famous military leaders like Sun Tzu and Napoleon Bonaparte frequently employed clever tactics to outsmart enemies.
  • The concept is central to many historical conflicts, showcasing the importance of wit over sheer strength.

Literature

  • Stratagems appear in classic literature, often as plots to outsmart villains or secure victory.
  • Shakespeare's plays often feature characters employing clever tricks to achieve their desires.
  • In modern literature, protagonists might use stratagems to navigate complex situations.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and television, clever schemes are often portrayed as pivotal turning points in the story.
  • Games like chess and strategic video games highlight the importance of planning and tactical thinking.
  • Films like 'Ocean's Eleven' show how a group can collaborate on an elaborate stratagem to achieve a goal.

Psychology

  • People often use stratagems in their daily lives to solve problems or persuade others.
  • Understanding how others strategize can enhance negotiation skills and interpersonal relationships.
  • Cognitive biases can affect the development and success of a stratagem, showcasing human psychology in decision-making.

Origin of 'stratagem'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'stratagemat-' meaning 'to plan a military operation'.
  • It made its way into English in the late 16th century, carrying military connotations.
  • Related words include 'strategy' and 'strategic', emphasizing planning.

The word 'stratagem' originated from the Greek word 'stratฤ“gฤ“ma', which means 'a military act'. It entered the English language in the late 15th century, borrowing from the Old French 'estratageme'. The concept of stratagem has been a key element in warfare throughout history, with military leaders using clever tactics and schemes to outmaneuver their enemies.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,695, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.