Subterfuge

Noun

Definition: Deceit or deception used in order to achieve one's goal, often involving hiding one's true intentions or using clever tactics to trick or manipulate others.

Synonyms: Deception, Trickery, Deceit, Dishonesty, Cunning

Antonyms: Honesty, Candor, Straightforwardness

Examples:

The politician resorted to subterfuge in order to win the election.
She used subterfuge to infiltrate the spy organization.

Mnemonics:

Think of "sub" as appearing beneath or below, indicating something hidden or deceptive.
Picture a "fuge" (referring to refuge or shelter) that is a façade or disguise hiding something secret.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "subterfuge" originated from the Latin word "subterfugium," which meant "an evasion" or "a means of escape." It is derived from the combination of "subter" meaning "beneath" or "secretly" and "fugere" meaning "to flee" or "to escape."

Historical Usage:

The term has been in use since the 16th century and is commonly used to describe deceptive tactics employed for personal gain or advantage.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Pulling off a subterfuge"

Explanation:

Refers to successfully executing a deceitful or cunning plan to achieve a desired outcome, often involving manipulation or trickery.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Using "subterfuge" interchangeably with "subterrestrial" or "subterranean."

Explanation:

While the words may sound similar, "subterfuge" refers specifically to deceptive tactics or deceit, whereas "subterrestrial" or "subterranean" relate to things beneath the surface of the Earth, such as underground or subterranean creatures or features.