1.
stratagem, scheme, ploy, cunning plan
A clever or cunning plan designed to achieve a goal, often by outwitting others. Usually implies calculating, underhanded, or manipulative intent.
敵の策略にはまった。
I fell for the enemy's ploy.
あれは相手の策略だと気づいた。
I realized that was the other party's scheme.
巧みな策略を使って、彼は交渉を有利に進めた。
Using a clever stratagem, he steered the negotiations in his favor.
USAGE:
策略 usually carries a negative connotation, implying deception or manipulation. It is the kind of plan someone devises to trick or outmaneuver others.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 策略にはまる: to fall for a scheme
- 策略を練る: to devise a stratagem
- 策略を使う: to use a ploy
- 策略を見抜く: to see through a scheme
- 巧みな策略: a clever stratagem
SIMILAR WORDS:
戦略 means "strategy" and is neutral, used for military, business, and general planning. 策略 implies cunning and often carries a negative undertone of deception. 計略 is similar to 策略 but even more strongly implies a deliberate trap.