Dupe: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'dupe' in informal situations when referring to a deceptive copy or tricking someone. It often has a negative connotation.

• He tried to sell me a dupe of the original painting
• She was duped into buying a fake product

Use 'copy' when referring to something that is made to be similar or identical to another item. This can apply to physical objects or digital documents.

• Please make a copy of this document
• The book is a copy of the original manuscript

Use 'clone' when referring to an exact genetic copy of a living organism or something that is an exact copy in terms of technology.

• The scientists successfully created a clone of the sheep
• This software is a clone of the original program

Use 'replica' when referring to a high-quality, detailed reproduction of something, often in a positive context.

• The museum displayed a replica of the ancient artifact
• This is a replica of the famous statue

When someone is being fooled or misled in a simple or innocent manner. It often implies the person being duped is naive.

• She was duped into believing the email was from her bank
• He duped his friend by telling them the wrong meeting place

When someone is intentionally giving a false impression or lying to another person. It emphasizes the intent to mislead.

• He deceived her about his whereabouts
• They were deceived into thinking the product was genuine

When someone is being cleverly deceived, often in a playful or less serious manner. It can also be used in the context of magic or illusions.

• He tricked his friend with a card game
• The magician tricked the audience with his sleight of hand

When someone is cheated out of money or property through deceitful means. It often involves complex schemes and has a legal implication.

• She was swindled out of her life savings by a con artist
• They swindled him by promising a fake investment opportunity