ploy

Vocabulary Word

Definition

A 'ploy' is a strategy or tactic used to gain an advantage, usually by unfair means. Like when a company offers a crazy low price just to lure a customer away from their competitors. It's a business trick, you could say.

Examples in Different Contexts

In storytelling, writers often use 'ploy' to describe a character’s cunning plan. A screenwriter might explain, 'The protagonist’s ploy to deceive the antagonist adds a thrilling twist to the plot.'

Practice Scenarios

Tech

Scenario:

The feedback on our latest software update has been mixed. Some users feel manipulated by the new in-app purchase options.

Response:

Then we need to ensure that our in-app purchase scheme isn’t perceived as a ploy to exploit our users.

Creative

Scenario:

This novel's plot needs a jolt. It's getting a little predictable in the middle chapters.

Response:

What if we introduce a ploy that reveals a hidden connection between two characters?