ploy

[ploi]

ploy Definition

a cunning plan or action designed to turn a situation to one's own advantage.

Using ploy: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ploy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    Her ploy to get a raise was to threaten to quit her job.

  • Example

    The politician's ploy to gain more votes backfired.

  • Example

    His ploy to win the game was to distract his opponent.

ploy Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for ploy

Idioms Using ploy

  • a last-ditch effort to achieve something, often done out of desperation

    Example

    His decision to ask his ex-girlfriend for help was a desperate ploy to save his failing business.

  • a tactic used by politicians to gain an advantage or win support from voters

    Example

    The candidate's promise to lower taxes was just a political ploy to win votes.

  • a strategy used by companies to promote or sell a product, often through deceptive or misleading means

    Example

    The company's claim that their product was 'all natural' was just a marketing ploy to attract health-conscious consumers.

Phrases with ploy

  • an insincere or manipulative attempt to elicit sympathy from others

    Example

    Her constant complaining was just a ploy for sympathy.

  • a tactic used to delay or postpone something

    Example

    The company's announcement of a new product was just a ploy for time, as they were not ready to release it yet.

  • a strategy used to evade or escape from a situation or responsibility

    Example

    His sudden illness was just a ploy to avoid attending the meeting.

Origins of ploy

from French 'emploi', meaning 'use'

๐Ÿ“Œ

Summary: ploy in Brief

The term 'ploy' [ploi] refers to a cunning plan or action designed to turn a situation to one's own advantage. It can be used in various contexts, such as work, politics, and sports, exemplified by 'Her ploy to get a raise was to threaten to quit her job.' 'Ploy' extends into phrases like 'ploy for sympathy,' and idioms like 'a desperate ploy,' denoting a last-ditch effort, and 'a marketing ploy,' implying a deceptive or misleading strategy.

How do native speakers use this expression?