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

There is no way to stick a knife into the circular reasoning gambit. — Jim Cramer, CNBC, 13 Oct. 2026

To roll out commercial units The regulatory gambit comes as major institutional energy consumers seek dependable, round-the-clock clean power. — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 10 Oct. 2026

Both are high-stakes and costly gambits, but as Vivienne Walt reports, Forrest is determined to prove that business can be a force for positive change. — Sam Forsdick, Fortune, 6 Oct. 2026

Sánchez is no stranger to gambits aimed at either saving his hide or strengthening his position. — ABC News, 6 Oct. 2026

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