Definition & Meaning of "bait and switch"

What is the origin of the idiom "bait and switch" and when to use it?

The idiom "bait and switch" originated in the realm of retail and marketing in the early 20th century. It describes a deceptive sales tactic where a seller advertises a product or service at an enticing price (the bait) to attract customers, but upon engagement, the seller then attempts to persuade the customer to purchase a different, usually more expensive, item (the switch). This tactic is designed to lure customers in with an appealing offer, only to disappoint or inconvenience them by redirecting their attention to a less desirable alternative. This expression is now used to attract potential buyers and capitalize on their interest, only to redirect them to a different, often less favorable, product or service.