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Trumping Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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trumping

[ˈtrʌmpɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

playing a card

To trump means to play a card that is of a higher suit than the cards already played, effectively winning the round. In a broader sense, it can also refer to outdoing or surpassing someone or something in a competitive context. The term is often used in games and competitive scenarios to describe a situation where one participant has an advantage over another due to a superior choice or action. It conveys the idea of gaining the upper hand through strategy or a decisive move.

Synonyms

outdo, overwhelm, surpass.

Examples of usage

  • He decided to trump her with a higher card.
  • She managed to trump everyone else's efforts with her innovative idea.
  • In the argument, he trumped his point with concrete evidence.
Context #2 | Noun

card game

A trump is a card or suit that has been designated to have a higher rank than other cards in a game, giving it special power or advantage during the play. For instance, in many card games, certain suits are chosen as trump to enhance strategic gameplay. The concept adds an exciting layer of strategy and anticipation, as players must decide when to use their trump cards for maximum effect.

Synonyms

advantage, superiority, trump card.

Examples of usage

  • He played the trump to win the hand.
  • The trump suit changed the dynamics of the game.
  • She held a strong trump in her hand.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural References

  • The term has been popularized in various games, like Bridge, where 'trumping' a card means winning over others strategically.
  • In the context of politics, 'trumping' reflects taking precedence over another viewpoint or action, often seen in debate and negotiation.
  • The gambling world has also embraced the term, where having a trump strategy can lead to significant winnings.

Psychology

  • The concept of trumping can relate to cognitive biases, where people choose certain arguments that override others in discussions.
  • Research in social psychology indicates that people often perceive 'trumped' arguments as more convincing, regardless of their actual strength.
  • The need to trump others can indicate a competitive nature, driving individuals to seek dominance in social situations.

Syntax and Usage

  • 'Trumping' is commonly used in discussions about priorities, where one option is seen as superior or more relevant than others.
  • The verb can be used in various contexts, from business to interpersonal relationships, where one idea or action takes precedence.
  • In contemporary language, it often implies dismissing or overshadowing something in a more nuanced debate or interaction.

Literature and Media

  • In literature, characters may often 'trump' their rivals using clever tactics, adding depth to conflict resolution.
  • Movies and books often showcase themes of being 'trumped' as a metaphor for overcoming challenges or outsmarting adversaries.
  • Cultural commentary often uses the term to discuss societal changes, with certain trends 'trumping' traditional norms.

Origin of 'trumping'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'trump' originates from the Middle English word 'trumpe,' meaning 'to blow a trumpet,' which evolved to signify victory.
  • In card games, 'trump' refers to a suit that has higher power, allowing players to win against others.
  • The word gained popularity in the 16th century and was often associated with success and superiority in competition.

The word 'trump' originates from the Middle English term 'trumpe', which meant a playing card of a suit that has a particular power over others. This can be traced further back to the Old French word 'triomphe', meaning triumph, which reflects its connotation of superiority and victory in gameplay. Over time, the term evolved in the context of various card games, becoming synonymous with winning strategies and decisive moves. The use of trump in a figurative sense, related to outdoing or surpassing someone in a non-gaming context, emerged later, especially in competitive discussions and arguments.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,146, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.