The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

artifice

IPA:

Dictionary definition of artifice

A clever or cunning device, strategy, or technique that is used to achieve a particular goal.
"The magician's performance was full of artifice and illusion."

Detailed meaning of artifice

It can refer to a wide range of tools or tactics, such as a clever rhetorical device used to sway public opinion or a technical innovation used to improve efficiency or productivity. The term artifice can also refer to a more general sense of trickery or deception, such as a fraudulent scheme or a hoax. In this sense, the term implies a sense of craftiness or ingenuity, as well as a willingness to bend the rules in order to achieve a particular objective. Artifice can be used in a positive or negative sense, depending on the context and intention of the user. While the term can be associated with manipulation or deception, it can also be used to describe a creative or innovative approach to problem-solving. In general, the term artifice implies a sense of inventiveness, cunning, and cleverness in achieving a particular goal or objective.

Example sentences containing artifice

1. His artifice in negotiations, employing persuasive tactics and strategic charm, left everyone impressed with his deal-making skills.
2. The artifice behind the magic trick, a combination of misdirection and sleight of hand, never failed to amaze the audience.
3. The complex artifice of the crossword puzzle, with its clever wordplay and intricate clues, challenged even the most dedicated solvers.
4. Her artifice in storytelling, weaving intricate plot twists and vivid characters, never failed to captivate readers.
5. Artifice, when wielded effectively, can be a powerful tool in achieving strategic goals and solving complex problems.
6. The artifice of the illusionist, who could make objects disappear and reappear at will, astounded audiences around the world.

History and etymology of artifice

The noun 'artifice' has its origins in the Latin word 'artificium,' which is a combination of 'ars' meaning 'art' or 'skill' and 'facere' meaning 'to make' or 'to do.' Therefore, 'artifice' etymologically signifies the act of skillful creation or craftsmanship. Over time, the term evolved to refer to clever or cunning devices, strategies, or techniques that are used to achieve a particular goal, often emphasizing the craftiness or ingenuity involved. 'Artifice' in its modern sense highlights the notion of employing skill and ingenuity to achieve an outcome, whether through clever inventions, strategies, or methods, and is rooted in the idea of artful manipulation or craft in achieving one's objectives.

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Further usage examples of artifice

1. He admired the artifice of the invention, recognizing the innovation and creative engineering behind its functionality.
2. Artifice, in the form of strategic planning and calculated risk-taking, played a crucial role in his remarkable success.
3. The artifice of her smile, hiding her true emotions behind a façade of cheerfulness, was evident to those who knew her well.
4. Clever artifice, such as using decoy tactics and diversionary measures, enhanced their strategic plan for the heist.
5. Artifice in architecture, seen in the intricately designed facades and innovative building materials, consistently wowed visitors to the city.
6. The artifice of their elaborate disguise, complete with costumes and false identities, fooled even the most discerning observers.
7. She had a deep appreciation for the artifice in literature, recognizing the literary techniques and narrative craftsmanship.
8. Artifice was the key to their escape plan, which relied on hidden tunnels and forged documents to outsmart their captors.
9. The artifice of the advanced technology, with its seamless integration and intuitive interface, never ceased to amaze users.
10. Artifice, when employed with intention, can be both a deceptive tool for manipulation and a creative means of expression.
11. His artifice in chess, using strategic maneuvers and psychological tactics, consistently impressed and confounded his rivals.
12. The intricate artifice evident in the painting, with its meticulous attention to detail and skillful use of color, stunned art enthusiasts.
13. Artifice is often used in marketing, where persuasive advertising techniques and clever branding strategies influence consumer behavior.
14. The artifice behind the elaborate scheme, involving multiple actors and carefully orchestrated events, was undeniably clever and well-executed.
15. The politician's speech was filled with artifice, trying to manipulate the audience's emotions.
16. The artist's paintings were so lifelike that they looked like real photos, but they were created with artifice.
17. The CEO used artifice to make the company's financial reports look better than they were.
18. The detective was able to uncover the artifice in the criminal's alibi.
19. The spy used artifice to gain access to the secure location.
20. The writer used artifice to create a suspenseful and engaging plot.
21. The marketing team used artifice to make the product more appealing to the consumers.
22. The fashion designer used artifice to create a unique and stunning collection.
23. The actor's performance was so convincing that it was hard to believe it was just artifice.
24. The hacker used artifice to gain access to the company's confidential information.
25. The architect used artifice to design a building that looked modern and impressive.