Definition

A strategy or plan, often used at the beginning of a situation, that involves making a sacrifice or taking a risk to gain an advantage.

Example

His opening gambit in the negotiation surprised everyone at the table.

Conversation

I was thinking about that chess match last night, and your gambit was really clever.

Thanks! I thought it would throw him off his game.

It definitely worked because he seemed confused after that move.

Yeah, sometimes a good gambit can really change the whole flow of the game.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Gambit originates from the Italian word 'gambetto', meaning a trick or a scheme, which itself comes from 'gamba' (meaning leg). The term originally referred to a maneuver in which one leg is used to trip an opponent, particularly in the context of chess where a player sacrifices a piece to gain a strategic advantage. Thus, a gambit is a calculated move or strategy, often involving some risk.

Memory Tip

Imagine a chess player making a strategic move that involves a sacrifice — that's what a gambit is, a clever trick or scheme to gain an advantage.

Visually Confused Words