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Dictionary definition of ruse

A clever or deceptive tactic or strategy that is used to trick or deceive someone.
"His friendly demeanor was merely a ruse to gain people's trust."

Detailed meaning of ruse

This can involve a wide range of techniques, such as disguises, misdirection, false information, or other forms of manipulation or subterfuge. The term "ruse" often implies a sense of cunning or ingenuity, as the person employing the tactic is typically trying to achieve some kind of advantage or goal through deception. For example, a spy might use a ruse to gain access to sensitive information, or a con artist might use a ruse to trick someone into giving them money or other valuable assets. The term "ruse" can also be used more broadly to describe any kind of trick or deception, whether this involves a specific tactic or not. Overall, the noun "ruse" connotes the idea of clever deception or trickery, often with the goal of achieving some kind of advantage or benefit.

Example sentences of ruse

1. She used a clever ruse to trick her opponent into revealing their strategy.
2. The spy employed a clever ruse to pass unnoticed through enemy lines.
3. The politician's promises turned out to be just a ruse to win votes.
4. The magician's performance was full of ruses and illusions.
5. She saw through his ruse and refused to be fooled.
6. The thief used a ruse to distract the store clerk and steal some merchandise.

History and etymology of ruse

The noun 'ruse' has an etymology with ties to both French and Latin. It originated from the Old French word 'ruser,' which means 'to divert' or 'to drive away.' In its earlier usage, 'ruse' referred to a tactic or strategy used in military contexts to divert or mislead an enemy. This French term can be traced back to the Latin word 'rursus,' meaning 'back' or 'again.' Over time, 'ruse' expanded in meaning to describe any clever or deceptive tactic or strategy used to trick or deceive someone, often involving diversion or misdirection. The etymology of 'ruse' underscores its historical connection to military maneuvers and the concept of diverting attention or confusing opponents, highlighting the crafty and often cunning nature of such tactics.

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Further usage examples of ruse

1. His story was a ruse to cover up his mistake.
2. The prankster's latest ruse was to hide his friend's phone.
3. The detective uncovered the criminal's ruse and solved the case.
4. The team's elaborate ruse helped them win the championship.
5. The villain's ruse almost succeeded, but he was caught in the end.
6. His elaborate ruse fooled everyone into thinking he was on vacation.
7. She saw through his ruse to avoid taking responsibility.
8. The cunning spy devised a brilliant ruse to infiltrate the enemy's ranks.
9. The magician's ruse left the audience in awe of his skills.
10. Their ruse involved a fake emergency to distract the guards.
11. He used a clever ruse to win the chess match.
12. The bank robbers devised a risky ruse to gain entry unnoticed.
13. Her innocent demeanor was part of her ruse to uncover the truth.
14. The con artist's ruse involved a counterfeit painting.
15. The detective unraveled the criminal's intricate ruse.
16. The politician's ruse to gain votes was revealed in the leaked emails.
17. The cunning fox employed a clever ruse to catch its prey.
18. The elaborate ruse succeeded in diverting attention from the main objective.
19. Their ruse to smuggle contraband went unnoticed by customs officials.
20. The team's ruse allowed them to win the championship game.
21. She used a subtle ruse to avoid attending the meeting.
22. The mastermind's ruse was a key element of the heist's success.
23. The spy's ruse involved assuming a false identity.
24. His ruse to escape from prison was carefully planned.
25. The hacker's ruse exposed vulnerabilities in the security system.
26. The criminal's ruse led the police on a wild goose chase.
27. The salesperson's friendly demeanor was just a ruse to make a sale.
28. The elaborate ruse was meant to distract from the real issue.
29. The ruse to get backstage at the concert involved forged passes.
30. The enemy's ruse was discovered, thwarting their surprise attack.