shell game

A deceptive scheme or trick, often involving sleight of hand, where something is hidden and moved around to confuse observers; also used metaphorically to describe any dishonest or misleading activity.

• 🌐لعبة تعتمد على الخفة والتمويه يخفي فيها المحتال كرة أو قطعة تحت أحد الأكواب ثم يحركها بسرعة ليخدع المشاهدين حول مكانها؛ وتستعمل مجازاً للدلالة على أي مخطط خادع أو احتيال أو تلاعب يهدف إلى تضليل الناس.

1. Deceptive trick or fraud B2 informal

   A dishonest scheme or trick where something is hidden or moved to deceive someone, often used to swindle money.

   • The street performer was running a shell game to cheat tourists out of their money.
   • The investment turned out to be a shell game, with the funds disappearing.
   • Don't fall for his shell game; he's just trying to confuse you.

   🌐خدعة احتيالية أو نصب

2. Literal game B1 formal

   A traditional gambling game where a pea or small ball is hidden under one of three cups or shells, which are then shuffled, and the player must guess its location.

   • He watched the shell game on the boardwalk, trying to follow the pea.
   • The shell game is often rigged to prevent players from winning.
   • She lost ten dollars playing the shell game at the fair.

   🌐لعبة قشور البازلاء