Smokescreen - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Definition:
A tactic to conceal or mislead by creating confusion or distraction.
Synonyms:
deception, cover-up, facade, ruse
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
transparency, honesty
Common Collocations:
create a smokescreen, hide behind a smokescreen, use as a smokescreen
Derivatives:
smokescreened, smokescreening
Usage Tips:
Use "smokescreen" to describe actions or statements meant to obscure the truth or divert attention.
Common Phrases:
throw up a smokescreen, behind the smokescreen, lost in the smokescreen
Etymology:
Originated from military tactics using smoke to obscure visibility; later extended to figurative use in deception.
Examples:
- 1. The politician's apology was just a smokescreen to avoid scrutiny.
- 2. The company used layoffs as a smokescreen for financial mismanagement.
- 3. Her cheerful demeanor acted as a smokescreen for her sadness.
- 4. The spy created a smokescreen to escape unnoticed.