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CEFR C2 — Proficiency

Legerdemain

Definition

(formal, literary) Skilful deception or trickery, especially for the purpose of achieving a desired end; clever or deceitful tactics. Originating from the French phrase 'léger de main', meaning 'light of hand', referring to sleight of hand in magic or conjuring.

Example Sentences

1The politician's legerdemain in manipulating public opinion was exposed by investigative journalists.
2Is it possible to distinguish between genuine innovation and mere legerdemain in the tech industry?
3The company's financial reports were found to be the result of accounting legerdemain, rather than actual growth.
4Avoid using legerdemain in your academic writing; instead, focus on presenting clear and honest arguments.
5There is a long history of legerdemain in politics, from Machiavelli's advice to Renaissance princes to modern spin doctoring.

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