mánh khoé
Definition
- Noun:
- A trick, a ruse, or a cunning scheme: A clever, deceptive, or underhanded method used to achieve a goal, often by misleading others or exploiting a situation.
- A ploy or a stratagem: A specific, often crafty, plan or maneuver designed to gain an advantage, typically in a selfish, dishonest, or petty way.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Hắn ta dùng mánh khoé để chiếm đoạt tài sản. (He used a trick to seize the property.)
- Tôi không thích những mánh khoé trong kinh doanh của họ. (I don't like the underhanded ploys in their business.)
- Mánh khoé đó không thể lừa được ai. (That ruse cannot fool anyone.)
Advanced Usage
- The word often carries a negative connotation, implying deceit, selfishness, or unethical behavior. It is frequently used in contexts of manipulation, petty corruption, or unfair competition.
Variants and Related Words
- Mánh lới (n): A synonym for trick or scheme, often used interchangeably with "mánh khoé."
- Mánh lới thương trường. (Business tricks.)
Synonyms
- Trick: A cunning act meant to deceive or cheat.
- Ruse: A deceptive maneuver.
- Ploy: A calculated strategy to gain an advantage.
- Stratagem: A clever scheme, often in a competitive context.
- Subterfuge: Deceit used to achieve one's goal.
Related Idioms
- Có mánh có khoé: To be full of tricks; to be cunning and resourceful in a deceptive way.
- Hắn là người có mánh có khoé. (He is a person full of cunning tricks.)