a bit of a trick

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bit of a trick" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is somewhat deceptive or requires skill to accomplish. Example: "The magician's performance was impressive, but it was really just a bit of a trick to create the illusion of magic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

This is a bit of a trick question.

The Washington Post

Bob Dylan's songs play a bit of a trick.

The New Yorker

"It's a bit of a trick question, but I'll try to answer it," he said.

The New York Times

The whole project is a bit of a trick, a little like the Klimts, which are copies, with fresh-looking modern faces superimposed on the models.

The New York Times - Food

"We should have just said, there was no way you could do it again, because it was a bit of a trick".

The New York Times

Actually, my initial question was a bit of a trick, because some states don't recognize cheerleading as a sport, and neither does the NCAA, a major problem unto itself, some believe.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

It sounds unapologetically like Cheap Trick, which itself is a bit of a cheap trick (arf), but one I've fallen for completely.

The Guardian - Music

This is just a bit of a con trick.

The Guardian - Books

Was importing the method into art a bit of a cheap trick?

The New Yorker

Nicola Sturgeon was impressive but a bit of a one trick pony on an anti-austerity line.

Independent

I think kitchen-gate is a bit of a cheap trick.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a bit of a trick" to describe situations that involve a clever but potentially misleading approach. Ensure the context makes it clear whether the trick is harmless or malicious.

Common error

While "a bit of a trick" is acceptable in many situations, avoid using it excessively in highly formal writing. Opt for more precise and professional terms like "strategic maneuver" or "calculated deception" in formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bit of a trick" functions as a qualifier, often serving to downplay or characterize an action or situation as involving deception or skill. Ludwig's examples showcase its descriptive usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Tech

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a bit of a trick" is a commonly used expression to describe something that involves a degree of cleverness or deception. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly news and media. While the phrase can be used broadly, careful consideration should be given to the formality of the writing, opting for more precise alternatives like "strategic maneuver" in professional settings. The numerous examples provided by Ludwig demonstrate the versatility and frequency of this expression in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat deceptive

Focuses on the misleading aspect.

slightly misleading

Emphasizes the minor degree of deception.

a clever ruse

Highlights the intelligence and cunning involved.

a subtle deception

Stresses the understated nature of the trick.

a skillful maneuver

Emphasizes the dexterity and expertise required.

a strategic ploy

Implies a planned and deliberate action.

a tricky situation

Highlights the complexity and potential difficulty.

a delicate operation

Suggests precision and careful handling are necessary.

a bit of a game

Suggests something playful and not serious, but potentially misleading.

something of a contrivance

Suggests artificiality or manipulation.

FAQs

How can I use "a bit of a trick" in a sentence?

You can use "a bit of a trick" to describe something that is somewhat deceptive or requires skill to accomplish, such as "The magician's performance was impressive, but it was really just "a bit of a trick" to create the illusion of magic".

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

You can use alternatives like "somewhat deceptive", "a clever ruse", or "a subtle deception" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a bit of a trick" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "a bit of a trick" in informal and semi-formal contexts to describe something that involves deception, skill, or cleverness. However, consider using more formal alternatives in academic or business writing.

What's the difference between "a bit of a trick" and "a strategic ploy"?

"A bit of a trick" generally implies a clever or deceptive act, while "a strategic ploy" suggests a carefully planned action designed to achieve a specific outcome. The latter is often used in more formal or business contexts.