Ploy: meaning, definitions and examples

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ploy

 

[ plɔɪ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

in a game

To deploy is to position troops or equipment in a strategic manner, often in preparation for battle or a specific task. It involves arranging resources in a way that maximizes their effectiveness in achieving a goal.

Synonyms

arrange, organize, position.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ploy

Use this word when describing a clever tactic or strategy, often involving some level of deceit or trickery.

  • His sudden interest in the project was just a ploy to get a promotion.
  • The company's discount was a ploy to attract more customers.
position

Use this word when referring to putting someone or something in a specific place or status, or discussing job roles.

  • He positioned the chair near the window.
  • She was positioned as the team leader due to her extensive experience.
arrange

This word is suitable when talking about putting things in a specific order or planning events and activities.

  • Can you help me arrange the books on the shelf?
  • She needs to arrange a meeting with the project team.
organize

This word is best used when referring to structuring or ordering components in a system, or planning events in a methodical manner.

  • I need to organize my files before the audit.
  • They organized a charity event to raise funds for the local hospital.

Examples of usage

  • The general decided to deploy the reinforcements along the eastern flank.
  • The team captain instructed the players to deploy in a defensive formation.
  • The commander planned to deploy the artillery units at dawn.
  • The coach strategically deployed the substitutes in the second half of the game.
Context #2 | Verb

in a technological context

To deploy can also refer to the process of releasing or activating software or applications for use. It involves making the software available and ready for operation, often across multiple devices or platforms.

Synonyms

activate, launch, release.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ploy

Use when referring to a clever or deceptive trick meant to achieve a specific outcome, often in a competitive or adversarial situation.

  • The company used a clever ploy to outsmart its competition
  • His sudden interest in art was just a ploy to impress her
release

Appropriate when something is being set free or made available to the public, often used for media, products, or pent-up emotions.

  • The band will release their latest album next week
  • After years of work, the novel is finally ready for release
activate

Best for situations where something is being made active or operational, often used with technology, systems, or processes.

  • Please activate the alarm system before you leave
  • The software will automatically activate your account after registration
launch

Ideal for describing the initiation of a significant project, product, or service, especially when there is a formal start or introduction.

  • The company plans to launch its new smartphone next month
  • She decided to launch a fundraising campaign for the local school

Examples of usage

  • The IT department will deploy the new software update next week.
  • The company plans to deploy the mobile app on both iOS and Android platforms.
  • The developer successfully deployed the website after extensive testing.
  • The network administrator will deploy the security patches to all computers in the office.

Translations

Translations of the word "ploy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 estratagema

🇮🇳 चाल

🇩🇪 List

🇮🇩 tipu muslihat

🇺🇦 хитрість

🇵🇱 sztuczka

🇯🇵 策略 (さくりゃく)

🇫🇷 stratagème

🇪🇸 estratagema

🇹🇷 hile

🇰🇷 계략 (gyeryak)

🇸🇦 خدعة

🇨🇿 trik

🇸🇰 trik

🇨🇳 策略 (cèlüè)

🇸🇮 trik

🇮🇸 bragð

🇰🇿 айла

🇬🇪 ხერხი

🇦🇿 hile

🇲🇽 estratagema

Etymology

The word 'ploy' originated in the late 16th century from the Middle Dutch 'plooi', meaning a fold or crease. Over time, it evolved to refer to a cunning or deceitful action, often used as a strategy to deceive or outwit an opponent. The concept of deploying resources or tactics strategically is central to the usage of 'ploy' in various contexts, from military maneuvers to software implementation.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,907, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.