a trick of thought

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a trick of thought" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a deceptive or misleading way of thinking about something, often in a philosophical or psychological context. Example: "The idea that we can control our emotions is often just a trick of thought that leads to frustration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

I saw that he wanted it to be like one of the Dick and Harry problems, giving way to common sense or to a trick of thought.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Is it a trick of some sort?

Independent

A TRICK OF THE LIGHT, by Louise Penny.

The New York Times - Books

It was a trick of the light.

The New York Times

Author, A Trick of the Light.

Huffington Post

This is a trick of the trade!

WikiHow

It's a trick of the trade.

WikiHow

The trick, Australia has discovered, is not to preach and scold, but first of all to show how, with a bit of thought and planning, consumers – even smokers – can make their mark.

Independent

A lot of thought.

Independent

"Declinism" has become a school of thought.

The Economist

America is a creation of thought.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a trick of thought" to describe subtle but misleading ways of thinking, especially in philosophical or psychological contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "a trick of thought" when describing intentional manipulation or lies. This phrase implies a more subtle, often unconscious, form of misleading thought.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a trick of thought" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates that it describes a deceptive or misleading way of thinking.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a trick of thought" is a noun phrase used to describe a deceptive or misleading way of thinking, according to Ludwig AI. It's grammatically correct but appears relatively infrequently. Its primary function is to pinpoint subtle mental deceptions in philosophical and psychological discussions. The register is neutral. While sources include news media, wikis, and academic content, the phrase is relatively rare. Consider alternatives like "mental illusion" or "cognitive distortion" for increased clarity or impact. Be mindful not to confuse it with deliberate deception. Be aware that usage examples are rare and mainly in news and media. Be also aware that usage in contexts such as wikis may diminish authoritative appeal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a mental illusion

This alternative focuses on the deceptive aspect of thought as something unreal or misleading.

a cognitive distortion

This term refers to a pattern of negative thinking that is often unrealistic.

a deceptive mindset

Highlights the misleading nature of one's mental state or attitude.

a fallacious belief

Focuses on the incorrect or misleading nature of the conviction.

a misleading perception

Emphasizes how thought can create incorrect interpretations.

a delusion of thought

Indicates a fixed false belief that is resistant to reason.

a cognitive bias

This alternative describes a systematic pattern of deviation from norm or rationality in judgment.

a distorted understanding

Emphasizes the altered or twisted way of comprehending something.

a false premise

Highlights that the starting point of reasoning is incorrect.

a flawed reasoning

This option emphasizes the incorrect logic or analysis.

FAQs

How can "a trick of thought" be used in a sentence?

You might say, "The belief that happiness comes from external sources is often just "a trick of thought" that leads to disappointment."

What's a simpler way to say "a trick of thought"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "mental illusion", "cognitive distortion", or "deceptive mindset" as alternatives.

Is "a trick of thought" the same as "self-deception"?

While related, "self-deception" implies a more active and conscious process of fooling oneself, whereas "a trick of thought" suggests a more subtle, almost inherent, misleading aspect of thinking.

Can "a trick of thought" be positive?

Generally, "a trick of thought" implies something misleading or negative. However, reframing negative thoughts could be seen as a beneficial "cognitive reframe", though it's not typically described as such.