maneuver 1 of 2

maneuver

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noun

Synonym Chooser

How is the word maneuver different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of maneuver are artifice, feint, ruse, stratagem, trick, and wile. While all these words mean "an indirect means to gain an end," maneuver suggests adroit and skillful avoidance of difficulty.

last-minute maneuvers to avert bankruptcy

Where would artifice be a reasonable alternative to maneuver?

While in some cases nearly identical to maneuver, artifice implies ingenious contrivance or invention.

the clever artifices of the stage

When is it sensible to use feint instead of maneuver?

The meanings of feint and maneuver largely overlap; however, feint implies a diversion or distraction of attention away from one's real intent.

a feint toward the enemy's left flank

When is ruse a more appropriate choice than maneuver?

The words ruse and maneuver can be used in similar contexts, but ruse stresses an attempt to mislead by a false impression.

the ruses of smugglers

In what contexts can stratagem take the place of maneuver?

The words stratagem and maneuver are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, stratagem implies a ruse used to entrap, outwit, circumvent, or surprise an opponent or enemy.

the stratagem-filled game

When would trick be a good substitute for maneuver?

In some situations, the words trick and maneuver are roughly equivalent. However, trick may imply deception, roguishness, illusion, and either an evil or harmless end.

the tricks of the trade

When could wile be used to replace maneuver?

Although the words wile and maneuver have much in common, wile suggests an attempt to entrap or deceive with false allurements.

used all of his wiles to ingratiate himself

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of maneuver
Verb
Finally, a second wave of FPVs maneuvered into the dugout to finish off any survivors. David Axe, Forbes, 6 Mar. 2025 At the end of the ride, the entire seating mechanism swivels around for unloading one group and maneuvering the others toward the screen for the next presentation. Dewayne Bevil, Orlando Sentinel, 12 Mar. 2025
Noun
The maneuver portion includes an obstacle course with a low crawl, high crawl and sprint, as well as dragging a person and using the fireman’s carry. Lolita C. Baldor, Los Angeles Times, 31 Mar. 2025 The aircraft touched down safely and normally at CLT, according to American, which said the incident was not considered an emergency maneuver. Chase Jordan, Charlotte Observer, 28 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for maneuver
Recent Examples of Synonyms for maneuver
Verb
  • Some billions of years later, some of that multicellular life figured out how to be reasonably smart and start using tools to manipulate and control its environment.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 26 Mar. 2025
  • Cybercriminals can trick authentication systems, approve fraudulent transactions or even manipulate corporate communications.
    Khurram Akhtar, Forbes.com, 26 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • While the United States continues to negotiate access to and control of these materials, these issues will take time to resolve.
    Jim DeLoach, Forbes.com, 26 Mar. 2025
  • Under that agreement, the two sides were supposed to exploit the pause in fighting to negotiate the next stage of the deal, including a permanent cease-fire and the release of the remaining Israeli hostages.
    Gershom Gorenberg, The Atlantic, 26 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The Palestine Red Crescent Society said four of its ambulances had been surrounded after responding to an Israeli attack in Rafah.
    Abeer Salman, CNN, 23 Mar. 2025
  • Astringent attack followed by a dense, chewy and edgy mid palate rich with flavors of fudge, chocolate and black cherries; on the finish—toffee, brownies and an explosion of red cherries.
    Tom Mullen, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • His delivery of Mantel’s dialogue—modern, intelligent, bristling with implication and subterfuge—is mesmerizingly clear.
    Taylor Antrim, Vogue, 20 Mar. 2025
  • With a bit of guidance, navigating between the classic go-to’s and the newer dining options are scattered throughout the properties can lead to incredible culinary discoveries, plenty of popping champagne bottles and even a dash of historical subterfuge.
    Alissa Fitzgerald, Forbes, 22 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • There were other notable AI appearances at SXSW including Rivian, which is on the road to Level 3 autonomy and had a thrilling Electric Joyride where passengers could experience how well the electric car handles tricky terrain and steep curves.
    Martine Paris, Forbes.com, 1 Apr. 2025
  • Her successor, Ashley Moody, later handled the majority of the legal defense, despite her personal opposition to the gun restriction.
    Romy Ellenbogen, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Fran arranged a private flight for Marcos to Buenos Aires, which was also the same flight Martina was on to meet Fran as well.
    Monica Mercuri, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025
  • The team often arranges these meetings involving Horner, Marko and representatives from both the Thai and Austrian shareholders following the flyaway races in Asia due to the convenience for all parties.
    Luke Smith, New York Times, 27 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Beijing has also softened its regulatory assault on Chinese technology companies and the property sector.
    Jacky Wong, WSJ, 6 Feb. 2023
  • Zelenskyy has warned for weeks that Moscow aims to step up its assault after about two months of virtual stalemate along the front line that stretches across the south and east.
    Reuters, NBC News, 31 Jan. 2023
Noun
  • Not least because the ruse allows for a Putin or two to die while another survives without toppling the edifice built by the original one.
    Melik Kaylan, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2025
  • The defendants never believed the ruse and within hours were sending threatening messages to Rendon, according to prosecutors.
    Alex Riggins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Maneuver.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/maneuver. Accessed 9 Apr. 2025.

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