To "cozen" means to deceive, persuade, or obtain something from someone through artful coaxing, wheedling, or trickery. Essentially, it involves manipulating someone into doing something they might not otherwise do.
Here's a breakdown:
- Deceive: To mislead or trick someone.
- Win over: To persuade someone to your point of view through charm or flattery.
- Induce: To influence or persuade someone to do something.
- Artful coaxing: Skillful and persuasive flattery or gentle urging.
- Wheedling: Using flattery or endearments to persuade someone.
- Shrewd trickery: Clever and cunning deception.
In short, to cozen is to gain something by employing cunning and often unethical methods.
Examples of Cozening:
- A con artist cozening an elderly person out of their life savings.
- A child cozening their parent into buying them a toy by using manipulative tactics.
- A salesperson cozening a customer into buying a product they don't need through deceptive sales pitches.
Difference Between Cozening and Similar Words:
While related to words like "persuade," "deceive," and "trick," "cozen" specifically implies a combination of charm, flattery, and often subtle deception to achieve a desired outcome. It suggests a more manipulative approach than simple persuasion.
