Meaning & Definition of word "Con"
to
Con
/kɒn/
noun:
- 1. A deceptive or misleading argument or scheme.
- Example: He fell for the con during the scam, losing a significant amount of money.
- 2. A person who engages in deception; a swindler.
- Example: The authorities are on the lookout for the con who tricked the elderly citizens.
- 3. A disadvantage or drawback of a particular course of action.
- Example: One major con of living in the city is the high cost of living.
verb:
- 1. To deceive or trick someone.
- Example: She managed to con him into believing that she was a wealthy heiress.
Etymology
From Latin 'con-', meaning 'together', used in conjunction with 'to deceive'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
Con artist:
A person who deceives others, often for fraudulent gain.
Con job:
A deceptive scheme or trick.
Con someone:
To deceive or trick someone.
Related Words
convict:
A person found guilty of a crime.
confidence trick:
A deceitful scheme designed to con a person.
consensus:
A general agreement, often reached by a conference or debate.
Slang Meanings of con
Meaning: A short form for 'convict'.
Example Sentence: He's been in and out of jail; he's a real con.
Meaning: To deceive someone in a clever way.
Example Sentence: She really knows how to con her way out of trouble.