Trickily Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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trickily

[ˈtrɪkɪli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

manner of action

Trickily is an adverb that describes the manner in which something is done in a deceptive or cunning way. This term often implies a sense of cleverness or slyness, indicating that the action may not be straightforward or honest. It can be used to describe situations where someone is attempting to outsmart another or where a task is complicated by unexpected difficulties.

Synonyms

cunningly, deceptively, slyly.

Examples of usage

  • He trickily avoided the questions during the interview.
  • She spoke trickily, making it hard to understand her true intentions.
  • The magician performed trickily, leaving the audience in awe.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • People often engage in trickiness as a means to solve complex problems, demonstrating cleverness and adaptability.
  • Research shows that ambiguity in a task can lead to more creative solutions, reflecting the nature of trickily approached challenges.
  • Tricky situations can induce stress, yet they also enhance cognitive flexibility, helping people learn to navigate complex scenarios.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often feature 'trickily' plotted narratives, where twists and turns keep audiences guessing until the end.
  • In many card games, trickery is a valued skill, showcasing players' strategic thinking and ability to mislead opponents.

Literature

  • Authors use a trickily woven plot to engage readers, making them think critically about character motivations and story twists.
  • The concept of the 'trickster' appears in various cultures' literature, representing characters who thrive on cleverness and deception.

Education

  • Teaching methods that encourage trickily structured problems boost critical thinking among students, challenging them to find solutions.
  • Using real-world examples that are trickily framed can prepare students for complex situations they may face outside of school.

Origin of 'trickily'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'trick' originates from the Middle English term 'trik', which meant a skill or a clever act.
  • Adding '-ily' makes it an adverb, transforming the adjective 'tricky' to describe how something is done.
  • The earliest written use of 'trickily' dates back to the early 20th century, showcasing its recent adaptation in the English language.

The word 'trickily' is derived from the root word 'trick,' which has its origins in the Middle English word 'tricque,' meaning a ruse or a cunning plan. This root can be traced further back to the Old French 'trique' and the Latin 'triccus,' a term that described a trick or deception. The '-ly' suffix indicates that it is functioning as an adverb. The use of 'trick' in the English language has evolved over time, while still retaining its core meaning related to cleverness and deceit. The adverb 'trickily' began to emerge in the 19th century, reflecting a growing interest in language that conveys complexity in action and intent. Today, it is used commonly in various contexts, especially in literary works or discussions involving strategy, cunning behavior, and intricate situations.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,745, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.