Every trick in the book

usgb
phrase

To have used every possible means to achieve something, especially to deceive or cheat someone.

He's used every trick in the book to try to get her attention, but she's not interested.
Visual representation of "every trick in the book" - To have used every possible means to achieve something, especially to deceive or cheat someone.

Often appears as...

  • used every trick in the book
  • know every trick in the book

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "every trick in the book"
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Figurative Use

It's used as a metaphor to imply using varied strategies, not actual 'tricks' from a book.

Illustration for Figurative Use
During the negotiations, he tried every trick in the book to seal the deal.
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Negative Connotation

Often suggests desperation or dishonesty in someone's actions.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The salesman used every trick in the book to convince us, but we saw through his tactics.
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Not Literal

There isn't an actual 'book of tricks'; it's expressing using all available methods.

Illustration for Not Literal
She used every trick in the book to win the game, even the most unexpected ones.
Visual representation of the word "Every trick in the book"

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