Synonyms of gambit

gambit

noun

ˈgam-bət 

as in ruse

a clever often underhanded means to achieve an end

The seemingly benign questioning was all just a gambit to get them to fess up to their wrongdoing.

Synonyms & Similar Words

• ruse
• scheme
• trick
• device
• stratagem
• ploy
• jig
• dodge
• sleight of hand
• fetch
• bluff
• knack
• gimmick
• flimflam
• sleight
• wile
• play
• deception
• artifice
• cunning
• feint
• subterfuge
• juggle
• shenanigan
• trickery
• chicanery
• duplicity
• hoax
• swindle
• skulduggery
• end run
• swindling
• legerdemain
• jugglery
• cheating
• fakery
• fraud
• sham
• gaff
• crookery
• blind
• smoke screen
• craft
• cozenage
• front
• dupery

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of gambit

Much like the Whos down in Whoville kept the spirit of Christmas alive in spite of the Grinch’s gift-stealing gambit, Halloween revelers can surely find ways to enjoy merriment on Saturday. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 27 Oct. 2026

While this gambit failed, advantages are about to save his ass. — Brian Moylan, Vulture, 22 Oct. 2026

But after a 2024 election season when the support of Beyoncé, Eminem and Taylor Swift didn’t help Kamala Harris and in some swing states may have hurt her, GOP strategists and pundits nationwide are doubling down on a newer anti-celebrity gambit. — Steven Zeitchik, HollywoodReporter, 21 Oct. 2026

No Bad Memories is an unusual gambit; by my count, there are 12 interstitial sketches to the record’s 14 proper songs. — Philip Sherburne, Pitchfork, 20 Oct. 2026

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