der Schwindler, –
swindler
Eine Person, die andere absichtlich täuscht, um einen Vorteil zu bekommen.
Definition & meaning
A Schwindler is a person who deceives others, usually for personal gain. Depending on context, it can mean swindler, fraudster, con artist, or more generally liar.
The word often suggests deliberate deception, sometimes involving money or a false identity.
Grammar & word origin
Masculine noun: der Schwindler
Plural: die Schwindler
It is formed from the verb schwindeln (“to deceive” or “to tell lies”) and the agent suffix -er, which describes a person who does something. The related noun der Schwindel can mean “deception” or “fraud”; it can also mean “dizziness.”
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- der Betrüger — “fraudster” or “cheat”; often emphasizes a concrete act of fraud.
- der Hochstapler — “impostor” or “con artist”; especially someone who pretends to have a status, identity, or qualifications they do not have.
- der Gauner — “crook” or “rogue”; informal and broadly describes a dishonest person.
- der Lügner — “liar”; emphasizes telling falsehoods, not necessarily committing fraud.
Antonyms:
- der Ehrliche — “an honest person”; a general opposite, emphasizing honesty.
- der Aufrichtige — “a sincere person”; emphasizes openness and truthfulness.
Common phrases & collocations
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Examples
Niemand schenkte dem bekannten Schwindler mehr Vertrauen.noun
No one trusted the notorious swindler anymore.
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