using the same trick

USAGE SUMMARY

"using the same trick" is a valid phrase that can be used in English.
It is usually used to refer to a strategy that has been successfully employed in the past and is being used again. For example: "We have been able to increase sales in this market before by lowering prices, so let's try using the same trick this time as well."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Roche is using the same trick again.

The New York Times

Finally, he shows how he can make any laptop screen touch-sensitive, using the same trick.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, in this last instance he became aware of his son's using the same trick on him.

The New Yorker

It could be formalized using the same trick.

SEP

If you made a mistake with the liquid liner, you can "erase" it using the same trick you used on pencil liner.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"The Chinese government is merely using the same tricks with the Hong Kong people as they use with the people in China, giving out periodic sweets to the Hong Kong people in an effort to keep them calm and docile".

The New York Times

White-space devices are expected to be able to zip data along at 400 to 800 megabits a second once they start using the same tricks as the latest forms of WiFi.

The Economist

Seven of its subsidiaries there lost money in the first nine months of last year.Bharti believes it can turn Zain's African business around using the same tricks that served it well in India.

The Economist

Now Labor is using the same tricks.

Vice

"Nature, at the end of the day, is using the same tricks across evolution," he says.

Huffington Post

To do this, you need to get "x" alone on one side of the equation using the same tricks you used in part one to set a side to zero.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When "using the same trick", ensure the context is similar to the original situation where the trick was successful. What worked once may not work again if the circumstances have significantly changed.

Common error

Avoid "using the same trick" repeatedly in similar situations without adapting it. Opponents or audiences may anticipate it, reducing its effectiveness and making you predictable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "using the same trick" typically functions as a verbal phrase within a sentence, often acting as part of a predicate to describe an action or behavior. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its usage in various contexts, from business acquisitions to personal interactions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "using the same trick" is a grammatically sound phrase employed to describe the repetition of a previously successful method. While Ludwig AI affirms its validity, its frequency is uncommon. Predominantly found in news media and wiki sources, its usage denotes ingenuity or predictability. For more formal scenarios, synonyms like "applying the same technique" might be preferable. Ultimately, the choice depends on the context and desired tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

employing a similar tactic

Focuses on the active use of a plan or method, differing slightly in emphasizing the action.

applying the same technique

Highlights a technical or specialized method, which can be a subtle shift in meaning.

adopting a parallel strategy

Emphasizes a high-level plan, presenting a slightly more formal tone.

duplicating the previous method

Implies exact replication, removing any sense of innovation or creativity.

relying on a proven formula

Suggests dependability and predictability, shifting focus to expected outcomes.

following the same approach

Indicates a sequential pattern of action, emphasizing consistency and order.

repeating a successful maneuver

Highlights skillful action and strategic thinking, especially in competitive scenarios.

mirroring the earlier process

Emphasizes the imitation of an earlier activity, with potential implications of copying or mimicking.

taking a leaf out of someone's book

Connotes emulating or copying another person's successful method or approach.

doing the same thing again

Suggests a simple repetition of an action or task, often without strategic intent.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "using the same trick"?

Consider alternatives such as "employing a similar tactic", "applying the same technique", or "adopting a parallel strategy" depending on the context.

Is "using the same trick" an informal expression?

While generally acceptable, "using the same trick" leans toward a more neutral register. In highly formal or academic writing, opting for a phrase like "applying the same methodology" might be more appropriate.

When is it not advisable to use "using the same trick"?

Avoid "using the same trick" if the audience is likely to recognize the repetition. In such cases, creativity or a new approach may be more effective.

What's the difference between "using the same trick" and "using the same strategy"?

"Trick" implies a clever or cunning method, whereas "strategy" suggests a broader, more planned approach. Therefore, "using the same strategy" is more suitable for formal contexts and comprehensive plans.