Psychological Tactics

noun the practice of winning a game or contest by using methods that are not strictly illegal but are often seen as unsporting or unethical

• The athlete was accused of using gamesmanship to gain an advantage over his opponent.
• She's a master of gamesmanship, always finding ways to outsmart her competitors.
• I can't believe the level of gamesmanship he displayed during the match.
• In the world of politics, gamesmanship is often used to manipulate public opinion.

adjective having or showing slyness or cunning in dealing with others

• The guileful politician was able to manipulate the situation to his advantage.
• She's a guileful one, always finding a way to get what she wants.
• Watch out for that guileful guy, he's always up to something.
• Her smile was as guileful as a fox, hiding her true intentions.

noun a persistent gaze or glare, especially in a challenging or intimidating way

verb to look fixedly or intently at someone or something, often as a way to intimidate or challenge

• The two competitors engaged in a tense stare down before the match began.
• I could feel the tension as they stared each other down across the room.
• They were really staring each other down, it was intense!
• She had to mentally prepare herself to stare down her fears and move forward.