bait and switch

Học thuật
Thân thiện
Definition

Noun: A deceptive sales tactic where a seller advertises a product at an exceptionally low price to attract customers, but then attempts to persuade those customers to purchase a different, more expensive item, often because the advertised product is unavailable, of poor quality, or less desirable.

Usage

This term is used to describe a specific, unethical business practice, primarily in retail and marketing contexts. It is often discussed in consumer protection law and business ethics. - The term functions as a compound noun, typically used in its full form "bait and switch." - It is commonly preceded by verbs like practice, use, engage in, or accuse of.

Examples
  • The electronics store was accused of bait and switch for advertising a laptop at a loss-leader price but never having it in stock.
  • Many consumers feel victimized by the bait and switch when they respond to an online ad only to find the deal doesn't exist.
  • That car dealership is known for its bait-and-switch tactics; they lure you in with a great offer on one model and then pressure you into buying a pricier one.
Advanced Usage
  • As a modifier: The term is frequently hyphenated ("bait-and-switch") when used as an adjective before a noun.
    • The company ran a bait-and-switch scheme that was eventually investigated by the authorities.
    • Customers are tired of these bait-and-switch advertisements.
Variants and Related Words
  • Bait advertising: A related term focusing on the initial, misleading advertisement.
  • Switch selling: A less common synonym emphasizing the act of persuading the customer to switch products.
  • Deceptive advertising / Misleading marketing: Broader terms that encompass "bait and switch" and other dishonest practices.
Synonyms
  • Deceptive selling
  • Lure and switch
  • Bait advertising
Related Idioms and Phrases
  • Pull a bait and switch: An informal phrase meaning to execute this deceptive tactic.
    • I think they're trying to pull a bait and switch on us; the deal seems too good to be true.
  • Bait-and-switch scam: A common collocation emphasizing the fraudulent nature of the practice.
Noun
  1. a deceptive way of selling that involves advertising a product at a very low price in order to attract customers who are then persuaded to switch to a more expensive product