Word: Con Artist
Definition: A "con artist" is a noun that refers to a person who tricks or deceives others, often by gaining their trust to take advantage of them. This person usually uses clever tricks and lies to get money or something valuable from someone else.
Usage Instructions: - "Con artist" is often used in informal contexts. - It is typically used to describe someone who is dishonest and manipulative. - You can use it to refer to someone who is skilled at deception, especially in financial scams.
Example: - "The con artist pretended to be a financial advisor and tricked many people into investing their money in a fake company."
Advanced Usage: - In literature or media, "con artist" can describe characters who are charming and persuasive but ultimately deceitful. - The term can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who is not honest in their intentions, even if their actions are not illegal.
Word Variants: - "Con" (noun): Short for "confidence trick" or "confidence game," which is the act of deceiving someone. - "Conning" (verb): The act of deceiving or tricking someone. - "Conned" (adjective): Used to describe someone who has been deceived.
Different Meaning:While "con artist" specifically refers to someone who deceives for personal gain, the term "artist" in other contexts can refer to someone skilled in a particular area (like a painter or musician). However, in this case, it has a negative connotation.
Synonyms: - Swindler - Fraudster - Trickster - Scammer
Idioms: - "Pull a con": This means to execute a trick or deception. - "Con job": Refers to a scheme or trick that someone uses to deceive others.
Phrasal Verbs: - "Con someone out of something": This means to trick someone into giving you something, usually money.