Strategems are a type of ruse, which is defined as a clever trick or stratagem used to deceive or outwit someone. Strategems are often used in military and political contexts, as well as in everyday life. They involve the use of cunning and deception to gain an advantage over an opponent. Strategems can be used to gain an advantage in negotiations, to gain access to resources, or to gain an advantage in a battle. Strategems can also be used to manipulate people or situations to one's own advantage.