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deceptive skill

[/dɪˈsɛptɪv skɪl/]
noun phrasepl: deceptive skills
habilidade enganosa
1. A technique or ability that creates a false impression or misleads through cunning or trickery
The magician's deceptive skill made the audience believe the coin disappeared.
A habilidade enganosa do mágico fez a plateia acreditar que a moeda desapareceu.
2. In sports or combat, a maneuver designed to fool an opponent about one's intentions or capabilities
His deceptive skill in footwork confused the defender.
Sua habilidade enganosa no trabalho de pés confundiu o defensor.
NYC Slang
sleight; game; smooth move
Synonyms
cunningtrickerysleight of handartificestratagem
Antonyms
honestystraightforwardnesstransparencycandor

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
habilidade enganosa
most common usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
jogo de cintura; malandragem
colloquial, emphasizes cunning and flexibility
São Paulo
habilidade enganosa; truque
formal and informal uses
Portugal
habilidade enganadora; astúcia
Portuguese preference for 'enganadora' over 'enganosa'

Related Idioms & Phrases

pulling the wool over someone's eyes
smoke and mirrors
sleight of hand
a con artist's tricks
feint and parry
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