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Kniff — meaning in English

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English meaning

  • contrivance noun A (mechanical) device to perform a certain task.
  • gimmick noun A clever trick, feature, or gadget used mainly to attract attention rather than add real value.
  • kludge noun An improvised device, typically crudely constructed to test the validity of a principle before implementing a finished design.
  • knack noun A natural skill or ability for doing something well, often something that seems to come easily.
  • ruse noun A clever trick or scheme meant to deceive someone.
  • trick noun An action meant to deceive, fool, or outsmart someone.

Senses

Kniff is used for these senses in English:

  • contrivance A means, such as an elaborate plan or strategy, to accomplish a certain objective.
  • kludge (informal) Any construction or practice, typically crude yet effective, designed to solve a problem temporarily or expediently.
  • knack Something performed, or to be done, requiring aptness and dexterity. [from mid 14th c.]
  • ruse (countable, by extension) An action intended to deceive; a trick.
  • trick An effective, clever or quick way of doing something.

contrivance — full definition

  1. noun A (mechanical) device to perform a certain task.
  2. noun A means, such as an elaborate plan or strategy, to accomplish a certain objective.
  3. noun Something overly artful or artificial.

gimmick — full definition

  1. noun A clever trick, feature, or gadget used mainly to attract attention rather than add real value.
  2. verb To fit or rig something with a hidden trick or device.

Related German words