trick

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "trick" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, such as referring to a clever or deceptive act, or a method for achieving something. Example: "He pulled a trick on his friends by pretending to disappear during the magic show."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

That did the trick.

The New York Times

Now, here's the trick: American flights from Des Moines to L.A. have a layover in Dallas.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's a really simple, really weird little trick.

The Guardian - Film

It is at around 90 seconds into the clip that Speroni grimaces, the commentator declaring "and I'm not quite sure what he's doing" as the goalkeeper dawdles at a back-pass, fails to trick Kevin Campbell and ends up conceding a penalty.

The Guardian - Sport

That's when his favourite teacher, Matthew Burton, decided to try a trick from The King's Speech.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Are you a good speller?" is a trick question.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

Beckford's hope now is that having become only the third player to score a hat-trick in a play-off final, following on from Clive Mendonca of Charlton and Swansea City's Scott Sinclair, a wider audience will be reminded of his talents.

The Guardian - Sport

After 53 minutes he claimed a hat-trick, crushing a shot from distance that deflected off Depay and went in off the post.

The Guardian - Sport

It started with the perfect hat-trick too: right foot, left foot, head.

The Guardian - Sport

He was looking after it for Leo after another hat-trick – the 31st of his career, his 23rd in the league.

The Guardian - Sport

Cristiano Ronaldo's hat-trick against Seville allowed him to eclipse Alfredo di Stéfano's record for Real Madrid.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "trick" to describe a clever method, ensure the context clarifies whether it's admirable ingenuity or potentially deceitful.

Common error

Avoid using "trick" when a more neutral term like "technique" or "method" would be more appropriate, especially in formal or professional contexts where deception is not implied.

Linguistic Context

The word "trick" functions primarily as a noun or a verb. As a noun, it denotes a clever or deceptive act, a skill, or a method. As a verb, it means to deceive or fool. According to Ludwig, this word is commonly used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "trick" is a versatile term with meanings ranging from clever actions to deceptive practices. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically sound and frequently used word, mainly in News & Media contexts. When writing, remember that "trick" can imply either ingenuity or deceit, so choose your words precisely. If you're aiming for neutrality, consider alternatives like "method" or "technique". Avoid using it where a more formal term would be appropriate. While "trick" is common, awareness of its connotations will ensure clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deception

Focuses specifically on the act of misleading or deceiving someone.

ruse

Implies a carefully planned scheme to deceive.

ploy

Suggests a tactic used to gain an advantage, often cleverly.

artifice

Highlights the skillful and clever nature of the method.

maneuver

Emphasizes a strategic action to achieve a goal.

stratagem

Indicates a plan or scheme, especially one used to outwit an opponent or achieve an end.

scheme

A plan or program of action, particularly a secret or underhanded one.

device

Highlights an inventive or clever tool or method.

expedient

Stresses the practicality and convenience of a particular method, even if not ideal.

knack

Refers to a natural talent or skill in doing something.

FAQs

How can I use "trick" in a sentence?

You can use "trick" to describe a clever action (e.g., "The magician showed us a fascinating trick"), a deceptive act (e.g., "He used a clever trick to win the game"), or a specific method (e.g., "Here's a trick for remembering names").

What can I say instead of "trick"?

You can use alternatives like "deception", "ruse", or "ploy" when referring to deceitful actions. For clever methods, consider "technique" or "method".

Which is correct: "That's a neat trick" or "That's a neat technique"?

Both are correct, but they carry different connotations. "That's a neat trick" implies cleverness or slight deception, while "That's a neat technique" suggests a skillful method. The best choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "trick" and "illusion"?

"Trick" often refers to a clever or deceptive action, while "illusion" refers specifically to something that appears different from what it is. A magician might use a "trick" to create an "illusion".