What does subterfuge mean?
Subterfuge is a noun for a deceptive or evasive means of achieving an objective. It refers especially to schemes, excuses, or maneuvers used to conceal the truth, avoid responsibility, or gain an advantage by misleading others. The word often suggests deliberate dishonesty and is more formal and evaluative than terms such as strategy or tactic. For example, a business might describe a complicated diversion of funds as a subterfuge, while a government might use the word for a proposal presented under false pretences. Subterfuge can also refer to an individual trick used to evade a question or obligation. In contemporary English, it is usually uncountable when discussing deception as a practice, though the plural “subterfuges” is also common for distinct schemes. Its defining quality is not merely indirectness or concealment, but the intention to mislead.
nounA deceptive or cunning device used to evade responsibility, conceal the truth, or achieve an end. The word often implies a dishonest or misleading stratagem rather than an open strategy.
- A deceptive or cunning device used to evade responsibility, conceal information, or obtain an advantage.
- An excuse or trick used to avoid answering a question, fulfilling an obligation, or confronting a difficult issue.
"The company used a series of accounting maneuvers as a subterfuge to conceal its losses."
"His apparent generosity was merely a subterfuge designed to strengthen his public reputation."
"The minister attempted to use procedural objections as a subterfuge to delay the inquiry."
"Her evasiveness amounted to a subterfuge when she changed the subject whenever the financial losses were mentioned."
Commonly used when referring to distinct deceptive schemes or maneuvers.
"The negotiator was accused of using several subterfuges to avoid settling the dispute."
A subterfuge is a way of getting somewhere without letting anyone see the route you actually took.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does subterfuge come from?
Subterfuge comes through French from Latin subterfugium, literally a way of escaping or a place of refuge. The Latin word was formed from subter-, meaning “under” or “beneath,” and fugere, meaning “to flee.” In English, the word developed from its earlier sense of an escape or evasion into its modern meaning of a deceptive device used to conceal something or avoid responsibility. It is related to cognates including refuge, fugitive, and fugue.
Related word forms
How subterfuge is actually used
Subterfuge is formal and generally carries a strongly disapproving tone. It is usually reserved for strategies intended to deceive or evade responsibility.
Easily confused with subterfuge
Subterfuge means a deceptive or evasive device, whereas subterraneous means existing or located underground.