swindle - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
swindle Word Meanings
- a person who cheats others out of money
- a fraudster or con artist
- someone who tricks people for personal gain
swindle Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
swindle Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈswɪndl/
US
/ˈswɪndl/
swindle Word Etymology
swindle = swind (to cheat) + -ler (one who); origins from Middle Dutch 'swindel' and influenced by German; visualize a sly figure casting a shadow to trick unsuspecting victims.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Swindle is a noun referring to a deliberate plan or scheme to cheat someone out of money, or to the person who carries out that plan. It implies a calculated, often organized fraud rather than a single impulsive lie. You might hear 'a swindle' about a fake investment scheme, a bogus charity, or a scam that preys on gullible victims. English speakers also use the verb 'to swindle,' but here we focus on the noun sense: 'a swindle' or 'the swindle.' The word carries a somewhat formal or old-fashioned tone and is commonly used in news reports, true crime writing, or discussions about fraud. Learners should distinguish it from milder terms like trick or lie by context and severity.
Usage Reminders
- Use swindle for a formal or factual reference to a planned fraud.
- Do not use swindle for a trivial lie; use trick or lie instead.
- Remember swindle often implies premeditation and a larger-scale scam.
- Some adjectives: organized, elaborate, costly.
- Differentiate swindle from scam or fraud by context.
Common Misconceptions
- It means the same as 'scam,' but with a lighter nuance.
- It is always about a person, not a plan.
- It only refers to monetary theft, not other kinds of deception.
- It cannot be used in casual speech.
- The related verb is rarely used in everyday conversation.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- 1) Link swindle to a specific real or hypothetical case to memorize context.
- 2) Compare with scam and fraud to notice nuances in scale and planning.
- 3) Practice using 'the swindle' vs 'to swindle' in different voices.
- 4) Read news reports to see formal usage.
- 5) Use 'swindler' for the person, not the act, to avoid confusion.
- 6) Remember it is more formal than casual tricks.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'swindle'?
A.to create a plan for success
B.to help someone in a time of need
C.to deceive someone in order to gain something
D.to investigate a crime
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence correctly uses the word 'swindle'?
A.He was swindled into thinking he won a lottery that didn't exist.
B.She swindled her friends by offering them free pizza.
C.They swindle the beans to grow a garden.
D.The teacher swindled the homework assignment.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'swindle'?
A.fraud
B.assist
C.improve
D.discover
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'swindle'?
A.betray
B.assist
C.conclude
D.sneeze
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might swindle another person?
A.A friend borrowed a book and never returned it.
B.A bank gave a loan for a new house.
C.A company is offering a product that is too good to be true.
D.An artist sold a painting at an exhibition.
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