elaborate con

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "elaborate con" is not correct in English and does not convey a clear meaning.
It seems to be an incomplete expression, possibly intended to mean "elaborate on" something, which is used when asking for more details or explanation about a topic. Example: "Could you elaborate on your proposal so we can understand it better?"

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

From singer-songwriters to stunt doubles, hi-tech companies to toy shops, the elaborate con has targeted individuals and companies around the globe.

Independent

After the tape summarizing the objective self-destructed, the team would use not violence, but elaborate con games to trap the villains.

The New York Times - Arts

When her children are summarily rejected by a snooty private school, Dahlia pulls off an elaborate con on the head mistress and succeeds in enrolling them.

The New York Times - Arts

He never writes with a smirk, never lets on that a murder mystery is an elaborate con game played between writer and reader.

The New York Times - Books

The apparently incomprehensible complexity of securitised debt left many economic experts, not to mention regulators, as clueless as the mark in an elaborate con trick.

The Guardian - Books

Listening to Richard Serra talk about sculpture is like listening to Russell Crowe talk about acting: after a while you feel you're either in the presence of genius or the victim of an elaborate con.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Dean, who had been told by a psychiatrist that she was bipolar, began engaging in elaborate cons, at one point posing as an heiress poised to inherit millions of dollars.

The New Yorker

And the problem is not over yet". But if the schemes run by Kurdi and Rubi were elaborate cons, the relationship between Hamas and the tunnels and the investment schemes is not quite as clear-cut as Zaza describes it.

The Guardian

That promise may be a lie, but because all three "Ocean's" are also self-consciously about the smoke and mirrors and glamour of movies — their elaborate cons can sound a lot like film-financing schemes — it is the kind of lie that nurtures and sustains.

The New York Times

Well, that's because they probably are the world is full of people who will lie, cheat, rob, and hustle, putting on elaborate cons just to snatch a few bucks.

Vice

I convinced myself that Dave was a con man planning an elaborate sting to separate me from my down payment.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing deceptive schemes, consider using more precise and grammatically standard phrases like "elaborate deception", "complex scam", or "intricate swindle" to ensure clarity and credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "elaborate con" in formal writing. While it might appear in some publications, it's not considered grammatically correct. Opt for alternatives like "elaborate deception" for clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "elaborate con" functions as an adjective-noun combination intended to describe a sophisticated or complex deception. However, as Ludwig AI points out, it's not grammatically sound, and more standard terms like "elaborate deception" are preferred.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "elaborate con" is frequently used across various news and media outlets to describe a complex deceptive scheme. However, according to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically incorrect and should be avoided in formal writing. While the phrase is understandable, opting for alternatives such as "elaborate deception", "complex scam", or "intricate swindle" will ensure greater clarity and credibility. Therefore, writers should be mindful of grammatical correctness and use standard alternatives to accurately convey the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

elaborate deception

Directly replaces "con" with a more standard term.

complex scam

Focuses on the complexity of the deception.

intricate swindle

Highlights the detailed and deceptive nature of the act.

sophisticated fraud

Emphasizes the advanced and cunning aspects of the deceit.

carefully planned swindle

Highlights the planning and preparation behind the act.

deceptive scheme

Points out the misleading nature of the plan.

detailed fraud

Focuses on the level of detail involved in the fraudulent activity.

artful deception

Underscores the skill and craftiness involved in the act of deceiving.

well-orchestrated scheme

Emphasizes the coordination and planning of the deceptive act.

clever hoax

Highlights the ingenuity and trickery of the deception.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "elaborate con"?

You can use phrases like "elaborate deception", "complex scam", or "intricate swindle" depending on the context.

Is "elaborate con" grammatically correct?

No, "elaborate con" is not considered grammatically correct in standard English. It's better to use alternatives like "elaborate deception".

How can I use "elaborate deception" in a sentence?

You can say, "The company was involved in an elaborate deception to defraud investors".

What's the difference between "elaborate con" and "elaborate scheme"?

"Elaborate scheme" is a more grammatically sound and widely accepted phrase. While "elaborate con" might be understood, it's not standard English. Consider using "elaborate scheme" for clearer communication.