devious

/'di:vjəs/

Thân thiện

The hiker followed a devious path through the forest.

Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Not straightforward; indirect or roundabout: Describes a path, route, or method that is not direct, often intentionally so.
   • Deceitful; not honest or straightforward: Describes a person or their behavior that is cunning, dishonest, or insincere, often using trickery to achieve a goal.

Usage and Examples

• Describing an indirect route or path:

  • We took a devious mountain trail to avoid the main road.
  • The river followed a devious course through the valley.

• Describing dishonest or cunning behavior:

  • He was known for his devious business tactics.
  • She gave a devious answer to avoid telling the truth.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• "Devious" often implies a deliberate intention to mislead, whether in a physical path or in a person's actions. It carries a negative connotation when referring to character.
• It can describe plans or schemes that are clever but morally questionable.
  • The plot was a devious masterpiece of manipulation.

Variants and Related Words

• Deviously (adverb): In a devious manner.
  • He had deviously manipulated the figures.
• Deviousness (noun): The quality of being devious.
  • The deviousness of his plan was alarming.

Synonyms

• Indirect: Not going straight to the point.
• Circuitous: Longer than the most direct way.
• Cunning: Skilled in achieving one's ends by deceit.
• Sly: Having or showing a cunning and deceitful nature.
• Tricky: Deceitful or crafty.

Antonyms

• Straightforward: Uncomplicated and direct.
• Direct: Going straight to the point.
• Honest: Free of deceit; truthful and sincere.
• Forthright: Direct and outspoken.

Idioms and Phrases

• A devious mind: Refers to a person who thinks in a cunning, scheming way.
  • You need a devious mind to solve this puzzle. (Here, it can be used playfully, though it often retains a negative sense.)
• Devious means: Methods that are not honest or straightforward.
  • He achieved his wealth through devious means.

Học thuật

Adjective

1. deviating from a straight course
   • a scenic but devious route
   • a long and circuitous journey by train and boat
   • a roundabout route avoided rush-hour traffic
2. characterized by insincerity or deceit; evasive
   • a devious character
   • shifty eyes
3. indirect in departing from the accepted or proper way; misleading
   • used devious means to achieve success
   • gave oblique answers to direct questions
   • oblique political maneuvers

Từ đồng nghĩa

• circuitous
• roundabout
• shifty
• oblique