double game

USAGE SUMMARY

"double game" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It refers to a situation in which someone is playing two roles or pursuing two conflicting interests at the same time. Example: The politician was accused of playing a double game, publicly supporting environmental policies while secretly accepting donations from oil companies.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This shows a double game.

The New York Times

Both sides are playing a double game.

The New Yorker

The first is Pakistan's double game.

The Economist

This double game must end.

The New York Times

But Garin says the double game failed.

The Washington Post

This double game goes back to 9/11.

The New York Times

But there was a double game".

The New York Times

"A double game?" he asked his deputy, Leah Moses.

The New York Times

Why would this have been a rare double game swing?

The New York Times

It has played a double game over Syria.

The Guardian

So the sinister, cynical double game will continue.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Be aware that using "double game" can imply a negative judgment about someone's behavior. Choose this phrase carefully if you want to avoid accusations or strong criticism.

Common error

Avoid using "double game" to simply describe someone with multiple responsibilities. The phrase implies intentional deception or conflicting loyalties, not merely multitasking. It's incorrect to say "She's playing a double game by working two jobs" unless there's evidence of conflicting interests or deception.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "double game" functions as a noun phrase often used as the object of a verb (e.g., playing a double game). It describes a situation or behavior characterized by duplicity or conflicting actions. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a common and correct expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Academia

14%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "double game" is a noun phrase frequently employed to describe situations involving deception, conflicting interests, or duplicity. According to Ludwig AI, it's considered grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly within News & Media contexts. This phrase serves primarily to criticize or expose contradictions in someone's actions, often carrying a judgmental tone. Related phrases include "playing both sides" and "deceptive tactics", highlighting the manipulative aspect of the behavior. When using "double game", it is crucial to ensure the context clearly illustrates the conflicting roles or interests being pursued. Misuse can occur if applied to situations lacking intentional deceit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

playing both sides

Highlights the act of supporting opposing factions.

duplicity

A formal term for deceitfulness.

two-faced behavior

Emphasizes the contradictory nature of the behavior.

having a hidden agenda

Stresses the presence of a concealed motive.

deceptive tactics

Focuses on the use of deception as a strategy.

conflicting interests

Points out the existence of opposing objectives.

ulterior motives

Highlights the existence of secret reasons for doing something.

divided loyalties

Highlights the act of supporting opposing factions.

insincere actions

Describes behavior that doesn't match true feelings or intentions.

treachery

Highlights the act of betrayal and deceit.

FAQs

How can I use "double game" in a sentence?

You can use "double game" to describe situations where someone is acting in two different ways or has conflicting interests. For example, "The politician was accused of playing a "double game" by supporting the environmental bill while secretly investing in oil companies."

What's the difference between "double game" and "hypocrisy"?

"Double game" implies actively engaging in two conflicting behaviors, while "hypocrisy" is more about claiming to have certain beliefs or moral standards that one's own behavior contradicts. "Double game" suggests a strategic intent, while "hypocrisy" is often a failure to live up to one's own professed values.

What are some synonyms for "double game"?

Alternatives include "playing both sides", "deceptive tactics", or "two-faced behavior", depending on the specific context.

Is "double game" a formal or informal expression?

"Double game" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is often found in news and media reports, as well as academic analyses, due to its descriptive and judgmental nature.