Formal and Informal Expressions of ploy

In different contexts, you can replace 'ploy' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'tactic, strategy' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'trick, gimmick' is a commonplace synonym.

ploy: Explore its Definition & Usage

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 desperate 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 political ploy
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 marketing ploy
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

ploy for sympathy
an insincere or manipulative attempt to elicit sympathy from others
Example
Her constant complaining was just a ploy for sympathy.
ploy for time
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.
ploy to avoid something
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'

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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.