C2nounformalarts
US/ˈɑːr.tə.fɪs/
UK/ˈɑː.tɪ.fɪs/
clever tricks or methods used to make something seem real or to deceive people
In context
Reality shows are full of artifice, even if they claim to be natural.
The director avoids artifice and films ordinary people in real streets.
Her writing is honest and free of artifice.
Words that go with artifice
adjective + preposition
- free of artificeHis acting is simple and free of artifice.
noun + preposition
- without artificeShe speaks without artifice about her childhood.
adjective + noun
- theatrical artificeThe play enjoys its own theatrical artifice.
- deliberate artificeThe film's bright colors are a deliberate artifice.
verb + noun
- use artificeMagicians use artifice to fool the audience.