contrivance
n
1 [C] ~ (for doing sth/to do sth)
(a) device or tool, esp one made by an individual for a particular purpose 机械装置或用具(尤指为某用途而特制之物)
a contrivance for cutting curved shapes 可作曲线切削的用具
He erected some contrivance for storing rain-water. 他装设了一种贮存雨水的器具.
(b) complicated or deceitful plan 计谋; 骗术
an ingenious contrivance to get her to sign the document without reading it 为使她不经过目就签署文件的妙计.
2 [U] capacity to do or accomplish sth 能力
Some things are beyond human contrivance. 有些事情人们是无能为力的.
3 [U] action of contriving 发明; 设计
the contrivance of an effective method 一种实用方法的产生.