skilled in deception

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "skilled in deception" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is adept at misleading or tricking others, often in a context related to cunning or manipulation. Example: "The con artist was highly skilled in deception, managing to swindle many unsuspecting victims."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

High-class slow bowlers are skilled in deception, and subtlety added to lack of pace on the ball makes the hitting of boundaries harder and riskier for the batsman.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The analysis is his, and anyway, she would never have been so candid – a mother who believed that everything would be for the best, skilled in self-deception.

The Guardian - Books

NATO officials have become so skilled in self-deception that a senior NATO official recently claimed that Kabul is safer for children than most western cities.

Huffington Post

Yet Melissa, too, is skilled in the art of self-deception.

The New Yorker

It is an exercise in deception.

The New York Times - Sports

"We engage in deception to do our job...

The New York Times - Magazine

His lawyers, he said, were "experienced in deception".

The New Yorker

For Smith, the key distinction lies in deception.

TechCrunch

As for the cerebral mechanisms underlying deception, the present data show that the process of intentional response manipulation in deception was characterized by prefrontal activity.

Cerebral Cortex

The cerebro-cerebellar circuits may underlie the involvement of the cerebellum in deception.

Behavioral and Brain Functions

/ Skilled in almost every single trade.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "skilled in deception", consider the context to ensure it aligns with the intended meaning. It often implies a negative connotation due to the nature of deception.

Common error

Avoid using "skilled in deception" in situations where honesty and transparency are valued. It's best suited for scenarios involving intrigue or conflict.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "skilled in deception" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to describe someone's proficiency in the art of deceiving. Ludwig AI shows it often describes characters in fiction or individuals in situations involving espionage or strategic maneuvering.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "skilled in deception" effectively conveys proficiency in misleading others, often with negative connotations. As Ludwig AI shows, it is grammatically correct and, while not overly common, finds its place in neutral to formal registers. Its primary function is to describe someone's aptitude for deception, whether in fictional narratives or real-world scenarios involving strategy and intrigue. When choosing this phrase, consider whether alternatives like "adept at deceit" or "master of manipulation" might better suit your intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

adept at deceit

Focuses on the ability to practice deceit effectively.

proficient in trickery

Highlights expertise in using tricks and cunning.

master of manipulation

Emphasizes control and influence through deceptive means.

expert in subterfuge

Refers to skill in using secret or disguised tactics.

highly deceptive

Directly describes someone as very misleading.

deceptive expertise

Highlights the skill and knowledge in being deceptive.

cunning strategist

Focuses on using deception as part of a strategic plan.

artful dodger

Emphasizes cleverness in avoiding detection or consequences.

adept at misleading

Directly describes the ability to mislead others effectively.

skilled at bamboozling

Highlights skill in confusing or deceiving others.

FAQs

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

You can use "skilled in deception" to describe someone adept at misleading others, such as "The spy was "skilled in deception", easily infiltrating enemy lines."

What are some alternatives to "skilled in deception"?

Alternatives include "adept at deceit", "proficient in trickery", or "master of manipulation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "skilled in deception" in a formal setting?

While grammatically correct, "skilled in deception" might be too negative for some formal settings. Consider using a more neutral term like "adept at strategy" if the context allows.

What is the difference between "skilled in deception" and "good at lying"?

"Skilled in deception" implies a broader range of techniques beyond just lying, including misdirection and manipulation. "Good at lying" simply means someone is effective at telling untruths. Therefore, "skilled in deception" encompasses more than just "good at lying".