Sweepstakes Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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sweepstakes
[หswiหpหsteษชks ]
Definition
winning contests
Sweepstakes refer to promotional contests in which prizes are awarded to winners at random. Participants typically enter these contests by filling out entry forms or purchasing products. Sweepstakes are a popular marketing tool used by companies to engage with consumers and promote their products or services.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Mary entered a sweepstakes to win a free vacation to Hawaii.
- The sweepstakes offered a grand prize of $10,000 to one lucky winner.
- Many people enjoy entering sweepstakes in hopes of winning exciting prizes.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Legal Aspects
- Sweepstakes are often regulated to protect consumers, and there are rules about how they must be conducted.
- In many countries, companies are required to provide a free way to enter, without needing to buy a product.
Popular Culture
- Television shows often feature sweepstakes as part of their contests to engage viewers and boost ratings.
- Social media platforms have started using sweepstakes as a marketing strategy to increase user engagement and followers.
Psychology
- The excitement of potential winning taps into the human desire for uncertainty, making participants more engaged.
- Research shows that the more a prize is perceived to be valuable, the more likely individuals are to enter the contest.
Historical Usage
- Sweepstakes have roots in ancient Rome, where lotteries were used to distribute prizes at public events.
- In the U.S., the first modern sweepstakes was held in 1866 by a newspaper to attract subscribers.
Origin of 'sweepstakes'
Main points about word origin
- The word combines 'sweep' meaning to collect and 'stakes' which comes from betting or putting something at risk.
- It dates back to the 19th century, where it referred to winning everything available, like a big competition.
The concept of sweepstakes dates back to the 15th century when the term was used to describe a method of allotting or disposing of something by chance. Over time, sweepstakes evolved into a form of marketing and promotion, with companies using them to attract customers and generate excitement around their brands. Today, sweepstakes are a common way for businesses to engage with their target audience and create buzz around their products.