# gambit

/ˈɡæmbɪt/ (US) · /ɡˈæmbɪt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gambit
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a clever move or something you say at the start of a situation to get an advantage later.

For teachers: a calculated move, remark, or tactic used at the beginning of a situation to gain a strategic advantage. Often implies a degree of risk or the sacrifice of a minor element for a greater eventual gain.

## Examples

- His opening gambit in the meeting was to offer a small discount.
- The CEO's mention of a potential merger was a bold gambit designed to test the board's loyalty.
- In international diplomacy, a small territorial concession is often used as a gambit to draw an opponent into more substantive negotiations regarding long-term peace.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in the context of games like chess or in business and political negotiations.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.