ploy

[ ploi ]

noun

1. a maneuver or stratagem, as in conversation, to gain the advantage.

   Synonyms: gambit, wile, subterfuge, ruse, tactic

verb (used with object)

1. Military Archaic. to move (troops) from a line into a column. Compare deploy.

verb (used without object)

1. Military Archaic. to move from a line into a column.

ploy

/ plɔɪ /

noun

1. a manoeuvre or tactic in a game, conversation, etc; stratagem; gambit
2. any business, job, hobby, etc, with which one is occupied

   angling is his latest ploy

3. a frolic, escapade, or practical joke

Other Words From

• counter·ploy noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of ploy¹

1475–85; earlier ploye to bend < Middle French ployer ( French plier ) < Latin plicāre to fold, ply ²; deploy

Word History and Origins

Origin of ploy¹

C18: originally Scot and northern English, perhaps from obsolete n sense of employ meaning an occupation

Example Sentences

Now, federal labor regulators say the company’s back-to-office order was an unlawful ploy to retaliate against the workers’ union organizing efforts.

From Los Angeles Times

Brighton’s strategy of attacking City’s right flank looked like a deliberate ploy, with 44.9% of their attacks targeting that wing as opposed to 26.9% on the left.

From BBC

Hochman criticized Gascón’s move last month as a political ploy, and said Wednesday he would review the case if it hasn’t been resolved by the time he takes office.

From Los Angeles Times

Depending on whom you ask, the federal immigration app CBP One is a solution to the border crisis, a human rights violation or a ploy to let anyone into the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

What is noticeable about many Cage Warriors shows is the amount of children in attendance compared to other promotions, and this is a deliberate ploy by the organisers.

From BBC

Related Words

• device
• maneuver
• ruse
• scheme
• stratagem
• subterfuge
• tactic