1.
strategy, scheme, stratagem, ruse
A clever plan or trick designed to deceive an opponent or achieve an objective through cunning rather than direct force. Often used in military, political, and game contexts. Carries a nuance of calculated deception.
敵の計略にはまった。
I fell for the enemy's scheme.
巧みな計略で相手を出し抜いた。
He outwitted the opponent with a clever stratagem.
戦国時代の武将たちは様々な計略を用いて領地を広げた。
The warlords of the Sengoku period used various stratagems to expand their territories.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 計略にはまる: to fall for a scheme
- 計略を巡らす: to devise a stratagem
- 計略を用いる: to employ a stratagem
- 巧みな計略: a clever ruse
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 策略: plot, scheme (similar but more negative, implies manipulation)
- 戦略: strategy (broader, neutral — overall plan for achieving goals)
- 作戦: tactics, operation (military or practical plan of action)
USAGE:
Commonly encountered in historical narratives, strategy games, and fiction. Less common in everyday conversation. The word evokes military cleverness and the art of outsmarting an opponent through deception.