as in deceptions
an act that is used to fool someone
His act was just a clever ruse to get me to go out with him.
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Recent Examples of ruses
Episode 4 finds both Ellen and Julia throwing themselves headlong into plans that require them to keep up major ruses.
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Kimberly Roots, TVLine, 22 Aug. 2025
Kimberly Roots, TVLine, 22 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ruses
Noun
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Like trick-or-treating, ding-dong-ditch pranks can escalate, with some versions targeting the same homeowner repeatedly or battering on a door in a threatening manner.—
Jeanine Santucci,
USA Today,
7 Sep. 2025
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And speaking of calming mechanisms, good pranks, and #goals, Oliver Scialdone would like you to click on this link—but you aren’t allowed to ask any further questions.—
Brittany Allen,
Literary Hub,
29 Aug. 2025
Noun
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From sleight-of-hand tricks to daring stunts, the afternoon is designed to keep the laughs and gasps coming.—
Tiffani Jackson Skinner,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
5 Sep. 2025
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Even if your furry friend has already mastered the obedience basics, try adding some new party tricks to their command repertoire.—
Kelsey Monstrola,
USA Today,
5 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Ruses.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ruses. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.
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