Sell somebody/buy a pup Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Consumer Caution Use this phrase when discussing purchases that didn't meet expectations. I thought I was getting a bargain, but I was sold a pup. Pro Tip 2/3Negative Outcome Implies regret or disappointment about a decision or purchase. That online course ended up being a waste; I totally bought a pup. Pro Tip 3/3Misleading Value Suggests an item or service was presented as more valuable than it truly is. The advertisement was misleading—I was sold a pup.