gamesmanship

[geymz-muhn-ship]

noun

1. the use of methods, especially in a sports contest, that are dubious or seemingly improper but not strictly illegal.

2. the technique or practice of manipulating people or events so as to gain an advantage or outwit one's opponents or competitors.

gamesmanship

/ ˈɡeɪmzmənˌʃɪp /

noun

1. informal,  the art of winning games or defeating opponents by clever or cunning practices without actually cheating

Other Word Forms

• gamesman noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of gamesmanship¹

1945–50; game ¹ + -s ³ + -manship, perhaps on the model of sportsmanship

Example Sentences

But Bruce Springsteen and the raw, stripped-down recordings of his 1982 “Nebraska” album seem earnestly in opposition to such artless gamesmanship.

From Los Angeles Times

But others worry about the integrity of electoral outcomes across the nation if political parties in every state resort to naked political gamesmanship to gain control.

From Los Angeles Times

“The gamesmanship in this request is apparent and the Government makes no attempt to hide it. Yet, shamefully, this Court plays along,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times

“I’m sure we’ll chat a little bit. But there’s a mutual respect. Like I said last year, it’s gamesmanship. We’re doing what we can to help our clubs win.”

From Los Angeles Times

Mike McCabe, the veteran gaming industry executive who heads the EWC Foundation, explained how gamesmanship would influence every aspect of the event.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• gimmick 
• one-upmanship 
• ploy 
• ruse 
• subterfuge 
• wile