Reading Theme:
Trick: Definition, Usage & Examples Explained (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：magic illusion (trick)
trick
/trɪk/
n./vt.
A clever action meant to surprise and entertain people, like making something appear or disappear.
magic illusion
➕
/ˈmædʒɪk ɪˈluːʒən/
n./vt.
A clever action designed to surprise and entertain, often involving illusion or sleight of hand.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Old French 'triquer', meaning to deceive, possibly of Germanic origin.
💡 Mnemonic
Think of a magician's quick trick to deceive the eye.
📖 Example
The magician's best trick was making a rabbit appear from an empty hat.
The magician's most impressive illusion was producing a rabbit from an empty hat.
🔗 Collocations
magic trick – an illusion performed by a magician
play a trick – to perform a playful deception
trick shot – a skillful or deceptive shot in sports
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
tricky (adj.) – difficult or deceptive
📖 Cultural Story
The word 'trick' entered English in the 15th century from Old French 'triquer', meaning 'to deceive'. It evolved to encompass playful deceptions in magic and cunning actions.
Meaning 2：deceive (trick)
trick
/trɪk/
n./vt.
To deceive someone or cheat them out of something.
deceive
➕
/dɪˈsiːv/
n./vt.
To intentionally mislead or cheat someone, often for personal gain or to avoid something.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
My friend tried to trick me into believing he was sick so he wouldn't have to go to the study group.
My friend attempted to deceive me by pretending to be ill to avoid the study session.
🔗 Collocations
trick someone into – to deceive someone to do something
play a trick on – to deceive someone playfully
trick or treat – a Halloween custom where children ask for treats
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
honesty (n.) – the quality of being truthful
truthfulness (n.) – the fact of being honest and sincere
🌱 Derivatives
trickster (n.) – a person who deceives or plays tricks
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