Dupes

Dupe, in context, refers to being tricked, deceived, or misled, often leading to a situation where someone is taken advantage of due to their gullibility or naivety. The term can signify both the act of deceiving and the individuals who fall victim to such deception. It often implies a sense of betrayal or exploitation, especially in social, financial, and personal relationships.

Dupes meaning with examples

• Many shoppers feel like dupes when they realize they've paid far more for a product than its actual worth, especially after reading reviews that highlight similar items at lower prices. This sentiment is common in today's fast-paced consumer market where advertisements can mislead unsuspecting buyers.
• In a classic con artist scenario, the dupes are often led in circles, believing they are making a smart investment when, in reality, they are being scammed. Emotional manipulation is often employed to keep the victims from realizing they've been played.
• The film portrayed a group of friends who felt like dupes after being conned into an extravagant vacation by a slick travel agent. Their itinerary was filled with hidden fees and unfulfilled promises, which left them both financially strained and emotionally upset.
• In an online phishing scheme, unsuspecting dupes are targeted by scammers who create fake websites that closely resemble legitimate companies. These dupes unknowingly provide personal information, falling victim to a well-orchestrated trap designed to exploit their trust.
• Historically, political dupes have been manipulated by powerful leaders who spread misinformation to gain support. These individuals often rally behind misleading ideals without realizing they are being used as pawns in a larger game.