Vocabulary Spotlight
Chicanery
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: The use of trickery or deceit to achieve a political, financial, or legal purpose.
“The politician was accused of chicanery in his efforts to win votes.”
Pronunciation
[shi-key-nuh-ree]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Deception
Trickery
Dishonesty
Fraud
Antonyms
Integrity
Sincerity
Truthfulness
Frankness
Related Words
Manipulation (noun)
Misrepresentation (noun)
Word Origin
The word “chicanery” comes from the French “chicanerie,” which referred to legal trickery or pettifoggery. It has evolved to mean any form of deceitful or dishonest behavior.
Word Family
Noun: Chicanery – Trickery or deceit, particularly in a legal or political context.
Verb: Chicane – To trick or deceive through clever maneuvering.
Related Noun: Subterfuge – Deceptive tactics used to avoid a problem or achieve a goal.
Mnemonics
Think of “chicanery” as “chicks in scenery” — creating a fake, deceptive appearance to trick others.
Industry-specific Usage
Politics
In politics, chicanery often refers to manipulative tactics or deceit used to gain favor or win elections.
Law
In legal contexts, chicanery describes misleading or underhanded practices to influence cases or judgments.
Business
In business, chicanery can refer to unethical tactics or deceitful marketing practices intended to mislead consumers.
In Context
Chicanery typically implies manipulative tactics used to gain advantage. It’s often associated with situations where integrity is compromised, especially in politics, law, and business.