Synonyms for

Deceit

Verb / dʌˈsi:t / / dɪˈsi:t / Another word for deceit — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

the action or practice of deceiving someone by concealing or misrepresenting the truth

Synonyms & similar words

dissembling misrepresentation fraudulence deception dissimulation dishonesty fraud deception trickery duplicity treachery cunning guile deviousness sneakiness craftiness artifice subterfuge chicanery pretense hypocrisy falsehood perfidy betrayal double-dealing

Synonyms by register

Formal

duplicity mendacity perfidy dishonesty

Informal

trickery cheating fibbing lying

Literary

guile artifice wile

Antonyms

honesty truth candor frankness integrity sincerity veracity

Common collocations

  • act of deceit
  • plain deceit
  • clever deceit
  • outright deceit
  • deceit and fraud
  • deceitful practices
  • a web of deceit

Word family

noun deceit
verb deceive
adjective deceitful
adverb deceitfully

Usage note

Deceit refers to the act of misleading someone, often with the intention to gain an advantage. It carries a strong negative connotation.

Example sentences

  1. He felt a sense of deceit when he found out he was lied to.
  2. She used deceit to win the game.
  3. His deceitful behavior was exposed.
  4. The politician was accused of deceit.
  5. The company was caught in an act of deceit.

Quotes

  • Deceit is the game of petty spirits, and that is by nature a woman's quality.
  • Deceit is the weapon of the weak and the defense of the strong.
  • Deceit is the weapon of false prophets.

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