fast one

noun

, Informal.

1. a shrewd action, especially when unscrupulous or dishonest; an unfair trick, deceitful practice, dishonest dealing, etc.:

   He pulled a fast one on me by paying me with a worthless check.

Word History and Origins

Origin of fast one¹

An Americanism dating back to 1920–25

Example Sentences

Indeed, McMahon seemed irked at the thought that Raw Story was trying to pull a fast one.

From Los Angeles Times

“Some companies are trying to pull a fast one by shrinking the products little by little and hoping you won't notice,” he said.

From Salon

So it may be unsurprising that the heirs of Proposition 13’s proponents are trying to pull another fast one on California taxpayers.

From Los Angeles Times

Ultimately, it's just a sad attempt to pull a fast one over his audience and his critics, with Asian women as the punchline again.

From Salon

If the bill is higher, the ambulance company may be trying to pull a fast one.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• atrocity
• breach
• case
• corruption
• evil
• felony
• infraction
• lawlessness
• misconduct
• misdeed
• misdemeanor
• scandal
• transgression
• violation
• wrongdoing