A "con artist" is a person who deceives or tricks others by persuading them to believe something that is not true, usually to gain something of value, typically money. The term is frequently used in both written and spoken language, often in contexts related to scams, fraud, and deception.
Despite being more common in discussions of criminal activity, the term can also be found in entertainment, such as movies or literature depicting characters who engage in trickery. The word is quite prevalent, particularly in news articles discussing fraud.
Перевод: Художник по обману смог украсть тысячи долларов у ничего не подозревающих жертв.
Many people believe they are immune to fraud, but anyone can fall victim to a skilled con artist.
Перевод: Многие люди верят, что они защищены от мошенничества, но каждый может стать жертвой умелого художника по обману.
The police are on the lookout for a notorious con artist who has been operating in the area.
The term "con artist" is commonly used in various idiomatic expressions that reflect deceit or trickery. Below are some idiomatic expressions that feature the term, along with example sentences:
The con artist was finally caught red-handed trying to sell fake tickets.
"Playing the con game" – Engaging in deceptive practices or scams.
He has been playing the con game for years, swindling people out of their savings.
"A con job" – A deceptive scheme or trick.
It turned out to be a con job, leaving many people angry and frustrated.
"Conning someone out of something" – Deceiving someone to gain something, especially money.
The term "con artist" derives from the word "confidence," referring to the art of gaining someone's trust to deceive them. It emerged in the late 19th century where "con" comes from "confidence trick." The "artist" part suggests a skillful manipulator or someone who excels in their deceptive practices.