finagle

/fi'neigl/ Cách viết khác : (fenagle) /fi'neiglə/

Thân thiện

A salesperson finagles a better deal by flattering the client.

Definition

1. Verb:
   • To achieve something through clever manipulation, trickery, or underhanded methods. It implies using cunning or deceitful tactics to get what one wants, often in a situation where straightforward methods would not succeed.

Usage

The verb "finagle" is typically used in informal contexts. It describes the act of scheming or maneuvering, often with a slightly negative connotation of dishonesty or sharp practice. It can be used both transitively (with a direct object) and intransitively.

Examples

• Transitive use (with an object):
  • He managed to finagle an invitation to the exclusive party.
  • She finagled a discount from the stubborn salesman.
• Intransitive use (without a direct object):
  • He's always finagling to get the best deals.
  • Don't try to finagle; just be honest about what you want.

Advanced Usage

• "To finagle one's way into/out of something": This common construction emphasizes using clever or deceitful methods to enter or escape a situation.
  • She finagled her way into the backstage area.
  • He tried to finagle his way out of paying the fine.

Variants and Related Words

• Finagler (noun): A person who finagles.
  • He's a clever finagler who always gets what he wants.

Synonyms

• Wangle: To obtain something through scheming or persuasion. (Often used interchangeably with "finagle").
• Maneuver: To skillfully plan or manipulate a situation.
• Scheme: To make secret or underhanded plans.

Related Phrasal Verbs/Constructions

• Finagle around: To manipulate or scheme in a general sense.
  • He spent the afternoon finagling around, trying to find a loophole in the contract.

Học thuật

Verb

1. achieve something by means of trickery or devious methods

Từ đồng nghĩa

• wangle
• manage