sneaky maneuver

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sneaky maneuver" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a clever or deceitful action taken to achieve a goal, often in a strategic or underhanded way. Example: "The spy executed a sneaky maneuver to infiltrate the enemy's headquarters without being detected."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel pulled a sneaky maneuver this summer.

The Washington Post

Fields said he had tried the sneaky maneuver two previous times this season, but in both cases, the free throw was good.

The New York Times - Sports

The type of political maneuvering engaged in by the then-governor may seem to the average citizen (or juror, for that matter), to be less than wholesome, perhaps even a bit sneaky, but if every unwholesome or sneaky maneuver were a crime, we would not be able to build the prisons quickly enough to meet demand.

Forbes

Recently, private government contractors have been fighting disclosure of crucial information in virtually every context nationwide, including with a sneaky maneuver called a "reverse Public Records Act". A case in Los Angeles is the latest example.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Sneaky tactic.

TechCrunch

Being sneaky.

The Guardian - Film

Niggling, sneaky.

The Guardian - Sport

"Sneaky eyes!

The Guardian - Film

Sneaky HBO!

Independent

Sneaky, eh?

The New York Times - Tech

Sneaky buggers.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience and the tone you want to convey. While "sneaky maneuver" is generally understood, it may be perceived negatively in certain formal or professional settings.

Common error

Avoid using "sneaky maneuver" too frequently in your writing, as it can become repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "cunning tactic" or "deceptive ploy" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sneaky maneuver" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the object of a verb or preposition. As indicated by Ludwig, it refers to a clever and often deceitful action taken to achieve a particular goal.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sneaky maneuver" is a phrase used to describe a clever, often underhanded action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for general use. While its frequency is rare, it is most commonly found in news and media contexts. Alternatives like "cunning tactic" or "deceptive ploy" may be more appropriate depending on the specific connotation you wish to convey. When employing this phrase, consider your audience and the potential negative implications of describing an action as "sneaky."

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cunning tactic

Emphasizes cleverness and strategic planning, downplaying any negative connotations.

deceptive ploy

Highlights the element of deception and trickery involved.

underhanded trick

Focuses on the unethical or unfair nature of the action.

crafty scheme

Suggests a well-developed plan with a hint of manipulation.

sly move

Implies a subtle and secretive action, often with a positive connotation of cleverness.

shrewd strategy

Focuses on the intelligence and resourcefulness behind the action, often in a business or political context.

artful dodge

Highlights the skill and dexterity in avoiding a difficult situation or responsibility.

insidious tactic

Emphasizes the gradual and harmful effect of the action.

Machiavellian tactic

Implies a ruthless and manipulative approach to achieving a goal, often in politics.

backhanded approach

Suggests an indirect and often insincere way of dealing with something.

FAQs

How can I use "sneaky maneuver" in a sentence?

You can use "sneaky maneuver" to describe a clever and often underhanded action taken to achieve a goal. For example: "The company employed a sneaky maneuver to avoid paying taxes."

What are some alternatives to "sneaky maneuver"?

Alternatives include "cunning tactic", "deceptive ploy", or "underhanded trick", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "sneaky maneuver" a formal or informal phrase?

"Sneaky maneuver" is generally considered a neutral phrase, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, consider your audience and the specific situation, as it can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation.

What is the difference between "sneaky maneuver" and "clever strategy"?

While both phrases describe actions taken to achieve a goal, "sneaky maneuver" implies a degree of underhandedness or deception, whereas "clever strategy" simply highlights intelligence and resourcefulness without any negative connotations.