
Artifice
Hidden Intent
Artifice often implies a hidden motive or intent behind the trick.

The magician’s artifice was meant to entertain, not deceive.
Negative Connotation
Artifice carries a negative connotation, suggesting dishonesty or deceit.

The con artist used artifice to swindle the tourists.
Often Complex
The trickery implied by artifice is usually clever or involves complex planning.

The escape plan involved a lot of artifice and preparation.
Compare with
CunningDeceptionGuileRuseStratagemSubterfugeTrickeryWiles
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