it's a ruse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it's a ruse" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is a deceptive trick or scheme intended to mislead someone. Example: "The elaborate story he told was just a distraction; it's a ruse to keep us from discovering the truth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

The problem with Gardner's apparently commendable moderation on immigration issues is that it's a ruse.

Huffington Post

It's a ruse, of course.

The New York Times - Science

Some could argue it's a ruse – but it's actually not bad enough to be fake.

Independent

The line gets a laugh, but it's a ruse: Tarantino is palming off the convolutions of his plot as a knowing gag.

The New Yorker

Even though a driver signs a form, said Senator John A. Lynch, a Democratic committee member, "It's a ruse; it's not consent at all".

The New York Times

When people hear about the shortage of water meters, "they often think it's a ruse," said Jack Siedman, a 33-year resident and a member of the public utility community board, who sports a graying ponytail under his straw hat.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

When the victim showed up to court covered in cuts and bruises and her neck in a brace, Steve's parents argued to us that it was a ruse: the bruises were makeup; the neck brace was for show.

The Guardian - Opinion

But the chief executive of Airbus, Jean Pierson, suspected it was a ruse to de-stabilise Airbus and delay work on Airbus's own super-jumbo.

The Economist

It was a ruse.

The New York Times

But it is a ruse, he said.

The New York Times

It was a ruse by Chrebet to throw the Patriots off.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it's a ruse", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being presented as deceptive. Providing specific details about the intended deception enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "it's a ruse" to describe simple mistakes or unintentional errors. A "ruse" implies a deliberate act of deception, not mere incompetence or accident.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it's a ruse" functions as a declarative statement. It's used to assert that something perceived or presented is, in reality, a deceptive trick or scheme. The function of this expression is straightforward: to reveal or denounce a hidden intention behind an action or situation, as suggested by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Huffington Post

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it's a ruse" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express that something is a deceptive trick or scheme. According to Ludwig AI, its usage is commonly found in news and media contexts, indicating a neutral register. While not exceptionally frequent, its purpose is clear: to expose or criticize deception. When employing this phrase, ensure the context makes it obvious what you believe to be deceptive and why, avoiding its misuse for unintentional errors. Consider synonyms like "it's a trick" or "it's a hoax" for variety or clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's a deception

Replaces "ruse" with a more direct synonym, focusing on the act of deceiving.

it's a trick

Uses a simpler term, "trick", to indicate a deceptive action.

it's a ploy

Emphasizes the strategic aspect of the deception with "ploy".

it's a hoax

Suggests a more elaborate deception intended to deceive a larger audience.

it's a sham

Implies that something is not genuine or as it appears.

it's a facade

Focuses on the deceptive outward appearance masking a different reality.

it's a pretense

Highlights the act of pretending to be something one is not.

it's a put-on

Suggests a playful or teasing form of deception.

it's a smokescreen

Indicates that something is being used to conceal the truth or distract attention.

it's a charade

Implies an elaborate and often absurd act of deception.

FAQs

How can I use "it's a ruse" in a sentence?

You can use "it's a ruse" to indicate that something is a deceptive trick or scheme. For example, "The elaborate story he told was just a distraction; "it's a ruse" to keep us from discovering the truth."

What are some alternatives to saying "it's a ruse"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "it's a trick", "it's a deception", or "it's a ploy".

Is "ruse" a formal or informal word?

"Ruse" is a neutral word, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, consider your audience, as simpler terms like "trick" might be more accessible in some situations.

What's the difference between "it's a ruse" and "it's a mistake"?

"It's a ruse" implies intentional deception, while "it's a mistake" suggests an unintentional error. The key difference lies in the intent behind the action.