How Do You Spell ARTFUL DODGER?

Pronunciation: [ˈɑːtfə͡l dˈɒd͡ʒə] (IPA)

The term "artful dodger" is often used to describe someone who is skilled at avoiding trouble or getting out of difficult situations. The spelling of this term can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). "Artful" is pronounced /ˈɑːt.fəl/, with the emphasis on the first syllable and the "t" being aspirated. "Dodger" is pronounced /ˈdɒdʒər/, with the emphasis on the second syllable and a soft "g" sound. Together, these two words create the well-known phrase "artful dodger."

ARTFUL DODGER Meaning and Definition

1. The term "artful dodger" refers to an individual who is cunning, crafty, or adept at avoiding getting caught, particularly in situations involving deceit or dishonesty. The phrase originated from the character of the same name in Charles Dickens' novel, "Oliver Twist." The Artful Dodger is a skilled pickpocket and youth leader in a gang of juvenile delinquents known as the "Fagin's Gang."

   In contemporary usage, the term extends the connotation beyond just criminal activity to encompass anyone who displays cleverness and ingenuity in avoiding or evading punishment, typically for their mischievous or deceitful actions. An artful dodger tends to possess sharp wits, quick thinking, and astute strategies that enable them to escape detection or outwit others. They may employ guile, distraction, or subterfuge to elude consequences or manipulate situations to their advantage.

   However, it should be noted that being an artful dodger is not inherently seen as a positive quality. While it may imply a certain level of slyness or resourcefulness, it often suggests a lack of integrity, honesty, or moral scruples. The artful dodger may be seen as exploitative or manipulative, employing their skills for personal gain without regard for the well-being or rights of others. Consequently, the term is often used with a negative or condemnatory tone, implying cleverness used for dubious or dishonest purposes.

Common Misspellings for ARTFUL DODGER

• zrtful dodger
• srtful dodger
• wrtful dodger
• qrtful dodger
• aetful dodger
• adtful dodger
• aftful dodger
• attful dodger
• a5tful dodger
• a4tful dodger
• arrful dodger
• arfful dodger
• argful dodger
• aryful dodger
• ar6ful dodger
• ar5ful dodger
• artdul dodger
• artcul dodger
• artvul dodger
• artgul dodger

Etymology of ARTFUL DODGER

The term "Artful Dodger" originated from Charles Dickens' novel "Oliver Twist", which was first published in 1838. It refers to a clever, street-smart young pickpocket named Jack Dawkins, who is a member of a gang of child thieves led by Fagin. The character Jack Dawkins is commonly known by his nickname, the Artful Dodger.

The term "artful" describes someone who is cunning, clever, or skilled in manipulating situations to their advantage. "Dodger" refers to someone who evades or avoids capture or punishment, often by quick and nimble movements. Thus, the "Artful Dodger" combines both elements to describe a person who is both astute and adept at avoiding trouble or being caught.

Idioms with the word ARTFUL DODGER

• artful dodger The idiom "artful dodger" refers to someone who is clever and skilled at avoiding difficult situations or things that might cause trouble. It is often used to describe someone who is sly, cunning, or resourceful in getting out of or avoiding trouble. The term is derived from a character in Charles Dickens' novel "Oliver Twist".

Plural form of ARTFUL DODGER is ARTFUL DODGERS