smoke and mirrors

noun

1. (used with a singular or plural verb) something that distorts or blurs facts, figures, etc., like a magic or conjuring trick; artful deception.

smoke and mirrors

noun

1. irrelevant or misleading information serving to obscure the truth of a situation

Word History and Origins

Origin of smoke and mirrors¹

First recorded in 1980–85

Word History and Origins

Origin of smoke and mirrors¹

C20: reference to the use of smoke and mirrors in conjuring illusions

Example Sentences

Lucky for us, the artist shows how the smoke and mirrors work.

From Los Angeles Times

Lucky for us, the artist shows how the smoke and mirrors work.

From Los Angeles Times

Smoke and mirrors, a fiscal fudge and a masterclass in creative public accounting?

From BBC

Ultimately, Thomas’ questions on Wednesday functioned as smoke and mirrors, a feeble effort to absolve the alleged constitutional violation in this case by depicting prosecutors as victims of a witch hunt.

From Slate

Even after removal of all the smoke and mirrors, though, reports of terrifying hauntings continue to this day.

From Los Angeles Times