Synonyms for contrivance
Most common
plot scheme expedient stratagem gadget contraption devising contriving
Synonyms by meaning
Noun
1. Stratagem
stratagem, scheme, plot, way, expedient, trick, means, invention, design, maneuver US, manoeuvre UK, plan, wile, resource, dodge, fetch, machination, ruse, ploy, chicanery, deceit, intrigue, finesse
2. Contraption
contraption, gadget, appliance, machine, convenience, widget, device dated, gizmo slang
3. Scheming — the making of cunning or deceitful plans
Other
Definitions
- n. 1
The making of cunning or deceitful plans
- n. 2
A (mechanical) device to perform a certain task.
- n. 3
A means, such as an elaborate plan or strategy, to accomplish a certain objective.
Related words
- Word family
- contrive
- Other spellings
- contrivancy
Forms
- Plural
- contrivances → stratagems, schemes, plots, ways…
Choose the right word
A contrivance or device may be either good or bad. Imposture is a deceitful contrivance for securing charity, credit, or consideration.
J. C. Fernald, English Synonyms and Antonyms (1914)
Example sentences
- plot The general participated in the plot with his men.
- scheme The main feature of this scheme is still ambiguous.
- expedient Never lie if the truth is more expedient.
- stratagem The enemy somehow got word of the stratagem.
- gadget This is a great time-saving gadget for the housewife.
- contraption What a peculiar contraption! What on earth is that for?
By length
- 3 letters
- way1
- 4 letters
- plan1, plot1, hack1, ruse1, ploy1, wile1
- 5 letters
- means1, trick1, dodge1, fetch1, gizmo2
- 6 letters
- design2, device2, scheme1, gadget2, deceit2, widget2
- 7 letters
- machine2, finesse2, devisal
- 8 letters
- resource2, maneuver3, intrigue2, scheming2, devising3
- 9 letters
- invention3, appliance3, manoeuvre, expedient4, stratagem3, chicanery4
- 10 letters
- contriving
- 11 letters
- engineering4, convenience3, contraption3, machination4
The small number after each word is its number of syllables (gizmo2 = 2 syllables).