# trickery

/ˈtɹɪkɝi/ (US) · /tɹˈɪkəɹi/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/trickery
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

clever or dishonest actions used to trick someone. It is often used to describe a dishonest way of winning a game or getting what you want.

For teachers: the use of cunning or dishonest methods to deceive or outwit someone. Often implies a lack of integrity or a reliance on cleverness over fair play.

## Examples

- The team won the game through some clever trickery.
- The magician's performance was full of trickery, but the audience remained completely fooled until the end.
- The politician's victory was largely attributed to political trickery rather than genuine support, as he manipulated the rules to ensure his opponent could not compete fairly.

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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.