Definition

A trick or plan used to hide something or to avoid a difficult situation.

Example

He used a clever subterfuge to avoid answering the question directly.

Conversation

Did you hear about the latest heist in town?

Yeah, they say it was planned with some serious subterfuge.

I can't believe they managed to pull it off without anyone noticing!

Right? It's crazy how clever people can be when it comes to deception.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Subterfuge is formed from "sub-" (meaning under) and "fugere" (meaning to flee). The word describes a tactic used to escape or evade something by going underneath or around it.

Memory Tip

Think of a strategy that helps you 'flee' or escape 'under' something — that's what subterfuge means.

Visually Confused Words