a common trick

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a common trick" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a frequently employed method or tactic, often in a context where deception or cleverness is involved. Example: "He used a common trick to distract his opponent during the game."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

(This is a common trick with tip jars).

The New York Times

"Here is a common trick: The factory signs contracts with 1,000 workers but actually they've hired 2,000.

The New York Times

It is a common trick at French hotels, and this one was no exception, to inflate the bill by adding the cost of breakfast to the price of the room, and then present the bill as a fait accompli.

The New York Times - Travel

They often attack the "lawful intercept" systems in other countries to spy on government and citizens without their knowledge: Exploiting the weaknesses associated with lawful intercept programs was a common trick for NSA.

The Guardian - Opinion

He later found further evidence to corroborate his finding: an American real estate agent told him that a common trick before entering a house with a client was to brew a pot of coffee because "then it becomes a home".

The New York Times - Magazine

If you know you're going to be in remote parts without internet acccess, a common trick is to write posts in advance and schedule them to be uploaded automatically.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

This is a pretty common trick and it surely contributes to the near 2.0% churn that DISH now experiences.

Huffington Post

Though a simple premise, Clustertruck's wrinkle is an increasingly common trick these days: physics.

Vice

The concealed animal parts were labeled as "scrap plastic," an increasingly common trick for smuggling horns and ivory out of Africa and into Asia.

The New York Times

In the last six months, an increasingly common trick has been for spammers to attach rogue e-mail-forwarding software to other e-mail messages or hide it in files that are meant to emulate songs on music sharing sites like KaZaA.

The New York Times

The most common trick is about a secret room, but there are others, like saying a famous penguin is here, or you found all the numbered buoys, etc.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a deceptive practice, use "a common trick" to clearly convey that the tactic is widely known and frequently employed.

Common error

Avoid using "a common trick" excessively in formal or academic writing. While the phrase is acceptable, more precise and professional language (e.g. "established method", "standard practice") may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a common trick" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that it correctly identifies frequently employed methods, as seen in examples ranging from sales tactics to political maneuvers.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

32%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a common trick" is a versatile and frequently used expression that describes a widely known and often employed method or tactic. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and acceptable in various contexts, primarily within news and media, as well as wiki-based sources. While the phrase is generally neutral, it can lean towards informality depending on the specific context. When crafting content, consider the audience and purpose to ensure appropriate tone, and explore related phrases like "a typical tactic" or "a well-known method" for added nuance. Steer clear of overusing it in formal writing. Remember, context is key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a typical tactic

Replaces "trick" with a more neutral term, "tactic", reducing the implication of deception.

a frequent ploy

Substitutes "trick" with "ploy", emphasizing a strategic maneuver.

a usual strategy

Replaces "trick" with "strategy", suggesting a planned approach.

a well-known method

Replaces "trick" with "method", highlighting the established nature of the approach.

a standard practice

Substitutes "trick" with "practice", focusing on the routine application.

a routine procedure

Replaces "trick" with "procedure", emphasizing a formal or structured approach.

a familiar technique

Substitutes "trick" with "technique", highlighting skill or expertise.

a popular scheme

Replaces "trick" with "scheme", emphasizing a plan, often with a negative connotation.

a classic maneuver

Substitutes "trick" with "maneuver", suggesting skillful movement or manipulation.

an age-old ruse

Replaces "common trick" with "age-old ruse", adding emphasis on deception and historical use.

FAQs

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

You can use "a common trick" to describe a frequently used method, often implying deception or cleverness. For example, "Brewing coffee is "a common trick" real estate agents use to make a house feel like a home."

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

Alternatives to "a common trick" include "a typical tactic", "a frequent ploy", or "a well-known method", depending on the specific context.

Is "a common trick" formal or informal?

"A common trick" is generally considered neutral to slightly informal. In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "a standard practice" or "an established method".

What is the difference between "a common trick" and "a simple trick"?

"A common trick" emphasizes that the tactic is widely known and frequently used, while "a simple trick" highlights the ease of execution. The phrases describe different qualities of the tactic.