Subterfuge
hardNegative toneSUB-ter-fyooj
noun
Definition
Deceit used to achieve one's goal; a trick
Memory hook
SUBTER-FUGE: fleeing secretly BENEATH the radar — using deceit and trickery.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“He gained entry through subterfuge.”
“The spy employed various subterfuges to gather information.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“He gained entry through ______.”
Show answer
subterfuge
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Subterfuge is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "ruse" or "stratagem" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "candor".
Related GRE Words
artifice
Clever or cunning devices or expedients, especially to deceive; trickery
chicanery
The use of trickery to achieve a political, financial, or legal purpose
guile
Sly or cunning intelligence; craftiness in deceiving others
dissemble
To conceal one's true motives, feelings, or beliefs; to feign
duplicity
Deceitfulness; double-dealing
equivocate
To use ambiguous language to avoid committing to a position; to be deliberately vague
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