PUFFERY Meaning and
Definition
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Puffery refers to exaggerated or extravagant claims made about a product, service, or company through promotional or advertising materials in order to enhance its image or appeal to consumers. It is a marketing technique often employed to create a positive perception of a brand and increase sales.
In puffery, advertisers use subjective language, hyperbole, or vague claims that are not intended to be taken literally or proved objectively. Advertisements may include statements such as "the best in town," "unbelievable results," or "number one choice," which are generalizations aimed at grabbing attention or generating interest. Puffery often involves opinions, personal preferences, and assertions that cannot be easily measured or verified.
The purpose of puffery is not to deceive or mislead consumers in a legal context but rather to create positive associations and promote the overall appeal of a product or business. It is understood that consumers are aware of these exaggerated claims and are not likely to rely on them as factual information when making purchasing decisions.
Due to its subjective nature, puffery typically does not constitute false advertising or breach of any laws. However, it should be noted that there is a fine line between puffery and making false claims, and advertisers need to be cautious not to cross that line. Regulatory bodies and industry standards often provide guidelines to ensure that puffery remains within acceptable limits, promoting fair competition and protecting consumers from deceptive tactics.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PUFFERY
- ouffery
- luffery
- -uffery
- 0uffery
- pyffery
- phffery
- pjffery
- piffery
- p8ffery
- p7ffery
- pudfery
- pucfery
- puvfery
- pugfery
- putfery
- pufdery
- pufcery
- pufvery
- puftery
- pufrery
Etymology of PUFFERY
The word "puffery" derives from the noun "puff", which originally meant a sudden burst of air or a short breath. "Puff" is believed to come from the Middle English word "puffen", which meant to blow or breathe heavily. Over time, "puff" began to take on the figurative meaning of boasting or exaggeration, leading to the development of the term "puffery". In advertising and marketing, "puffery" refers to exaggerated, often unsubstantiated claims made to enhance the appeal of a product or service.
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