bait and switch

noun

: a selling method in which a customer is attracted by the advertisement of a low-priced product but then is encouraged to buy a more expensive one

Full Definition of BAIT AND SWITCH

: a sales tactic in which a customer is attracted by the advertisement of a low-priced item but is then encouraged to buy a higher-priced one

: the ploy of offering a person something desirable to gain favor (as political support) then thwarting expectations with something less desirable

See bait and switch defined for English-language learners

1967

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