That to which one resorts for escape or concealment; an artifice employed to escape censure or the force of an argument, or to justify opinions or conduct; a shift; an evasion.
Subterfuge can be any deceptive stratagem or manoeuvre designed to take advantage of an opponent. Subterfuge is a recognized skill in situations of war or international spying. It has fewer positive connotations when used in the context of politics or personal relations.