stratagem

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "stratagem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a clever plan or trick used to achieve a goal. For example, "The general devised an elaborate stratagem to deceive the enemy troops."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Did Davis's stratagem make sense?

The Guardian - Opinion

In any case, the stratagem might not work.

The Economist

The real reason may have been to avoid a vote next year, when the economy could be even weaker.The stratagem might fail.

The Economist

If the public had any strong concerns about the legitimacy of this process, many of them evaporated on September 11th 2001 when it became widely accepted that against a deadly and globally networked enemy, every stratagem was needed.

The Economist

Speech, on the other hand, was "a constant stratagem to cover nakedness", he once wrote.

The Economist

On your own Nigeria's democracy dividend The armchair version Reprints Related items Barak’s gambleDec 14th 2000 The Palestinians: On your ownDec 14th 2000 Arab intifada: The armchair versionDec 14th 2000"The most cynical ploy in Israeli history," Mr Netanyahu termed Mr Barak's stratagem, urging the Knesset to rise above it and continue the dissolution procedure.

The Economist

Then, last month, before the survey was finished and for reasons still unclear, the Democrats abruptly tried to attach a repeal of the law to the defence appropriations bill, a stratagem the Republicans defeated in a filibuster.All this leaves Mr Obama's policy in a mess.

The Economist

So far most complaints lodged against the company in Texas concern its high rates, not its marketing stratagem.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

The third narrative follows a swordsman whose thoughts are set down in robust Scots dialect, who mainly thinks about stoving heads in, raping and pillaging, but whose life is made more complicated by a familiar who whispers complicated stratagems into his ear and craps down his back.

The Guardian - Books

On the whole, the drugs industry is not pleased with state stratagems, says Sharon Treat, head of the National Legislative Association on Prescription Drugs Prices, and does its best to lobby and sue against price controls.How to negotiateBut a few states have been successful.

The Economist

Then Quebec, in practice as the court recognised might unilaterally proclaim its sovereignty and, yes, might eventually win Canadian and international recognition.Too selective by half, the federal inter-governmental-affairs minister, Stéphane Dion, wrote to Mr Bouchard this week: "The time for stratagems is over".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "stratagem" when you want to emphasize the clever and often deceptive nature of a plan to achieve a specific goal, especially in situations involving conflict or competition.

Common error

Avoid using "stratagem" when a simpler term like "plan" or "method" would suffice. "Stratagem" implies a level of complexity and cunning that isn't always necessary.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "stratagem" is that of a noun. It typically functions as the subject or object of a sentence, referring to a carefully planned and often cunning scheme or trick used to achieve a specific goal. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

32%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stratagem" is a versatile noun referring to a carefully planned and often deceptive scheme to achieve a goal. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it is most commonly found in news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications, suggesting a relatively formal and analytical tone. When using "stratagem", ensure the context involves a deliberate plan with an element of cunning or deception, as overusing it in simpler situations can sound unnecessarily complex. Related terms include "clever tactic", "cunning maneuver", and "strategic ploy", each offering slightly different nuances. Remember, while "strategy" outlines a broader overall approach, "stratagem" pinpoints a specific trick or plan within that strategy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strategic ploy

Focuses on the calculated and planned aspect of the action.

calculated move

Emphasizes the deliberate and thoughtful planning behind the action.

clever tactic

Emphasizes the skillful and ingenious nature of the plan.

shrewd approach

Indicates the cleverness in solving a difficult situation.

cunning maneuver

Highlights the element of deception and skillful manipulation.

ingenious scheme

Stresses the inventive and elaborate nature of the plan.

artful dodge

Suggests a clever way of avoiding a difficult situation.

deceptive artifice

Highlights the use of deception to gain an advantage.

game plan

Implies the detailed road map to achieve the success.

underhand trick

Suggests the plan is slightly immoral, involving deception.

FAQs

How can I use "stratagem" in a sentence?

You can use "stratagem" to describe a clever plan or trick used to achieve a goal, such as, "The company employed a "marketing stratagem" to increase sales".

What are some synonyms for "stratagem"?

Some synonyms for "stratagem" include "tactic", "ploy", "scheme", and "maneuver". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "stratagem" a formal word?

"Stratagem" is a relatively formal word, suggesting a carefully planned and often cunning approach. Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing when deciding whether to use it.

What is the difference between "stratagem" and "strategy"?

"Stratagem" refers to a specific trick or plan used to achieve a goal, while "strategy" is a broader, overall approach to achieving a long-term objective. A stratagem is often a component of a larger strategy.