a big trick

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a big trick" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant or clever deception or ruse in various contexts, such as storytelling or discussing pranks. Example: "The magician's final act was a big trick that left the audience in awe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

But founder Kevin Carey has a big trick up his sleave – not only does he allow user submitted links to have affiliate codes, he absolutely encourages it.

TechCrunch

This is a big trick of the Shadow.

Huffington Post

At a morning meeting with the University of Washington football team Tuesday, head coach Chris Petersen had a big trick up his sleeve.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

But Stillman has a bigger trick up his sleeve: he turns Sir James into an aristocratic Forrest Gump who reveals, in his ignorant innocence, the movie's philosophical core.

The New Yorker

"Short-term weight loss is not a particularly big trick," says James Pope, the chief science officer for Healthways.

The Economist

"And the video, in a way, is one big trick".

The New Yorker

All three songs have such indelible melodies that they carry you blithely along, indifferent to the shortcomings of the rest of the song, which may have been Gallagher's big trick as a songwriter from the off: it's not like anyone loved Definitely Maybe for its devastating originality or lyrical insight.

The Guardian - Music

"The big trick as an editor is adjusting the culture enough so writers are willing to see this entire different format as part of what they do and as part of what The New Yorker does," he said.

The New York Times

And the big trick to being a successful designer is always making sure you're asking the right questions and focusing on the right problems.

The New York Times

"The big trick is creating a personality that people will identify with or be entertained by — that has flaws that make it lovable or likable," Walsh said.

TechCrunch

Linda's work is popular, as this novel will be, because it plays a big fat trick on the reader on its final page, delivering a detail that changes virtually everything else about the story.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a big trick", consider the specific connotation you want to convey – is it deception, cleverness, surprise, or strategy? Choose synonyms or related phrases to fine-tune the meaning.

Common error

In formal or academic writing, "a big trick" might sound too colloquial. Opt for more precise and professional terms like "a significant deception", "a strategic maneuver", or "a key strategy" to maintain a formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a big trick" is that of a noun phrase, typically used as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a big trick" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a significant or clever act, often implying deception or ingenuity. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it's important to consider the context. The phrase is most common in News & Media, suggesting a neutral register, but less suitable for formal or academic settings. Consider alternative phrases like "major deception" or "clever ruse" for more formal tones. By understanding its nuances, you can effectively use "a big trick" to add depth and clarity to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major deception

Emphasizes the act of deceiving on a grand scale.

a grand deception

Implies that the trickery is large-scale and impressive.

a clever ruse

Highlights the ingenuity and cunning involved in the trick.

a deceptive strategy

Highlights that the trick is not just a simple deception, but a part of an intentional plan.

a significant ploy

Focuses on the strategic aspect of the trick, suggesting a deliberate plan.

a cunning scheme

Stresses the skillful and often deceitful nature of the plan.

a masterful maneuver

Highlights the skill and precision involved in executing the trick.

an elaborate hoax

Focuses on the complexity and deception involved.

a surprising tactic

Emphasizes the unexpected nature of the approach.

a smart move

Suggests a clever and well-thought-out action, potentially with a deceptive element.

FAQs

What does "a big trick" mean?

"A big trick" generally refers to a significant or clever deception, ruse, or tactic. It can imply something surprising, deceitful, or ingenious depending on the context.

What can I say instead of "a big trick"?

You can use alternatives like "major deception", "clever ruse", or "significant ploy" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a big trick" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a big trick" might be considered too informal for academic or professional writing. In such contexts, consider more formal alternatives like "a strategic maneuver" or "a calculated deception".

How can I use "a big trick" in a sentence?

You can use "a big trick" to describe a surprising or deceptive action, for example: "The magician's final act was a big trick that left the audience in awe."