unfair competition

American  

noun

1. acts done by a seller to confuse or deceive the public with intent to acquire a larger portion of the market, as by cutting prices below cost, misleading advertising, selling a spurious product under a false identity, etc.

2. the use of any such methods.

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Example Sentences

The lawsuits, which accuse the insurers of violating the state’s antirust and unfair competition laws, were largely upheld in a decision Thursday by Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Samantha Jessner.

From Los Angeles Times • May 16, 2026

But EU leaders during talks Thursday appeared to reach a consensus on the issue, pushing for the measure in certain specific sectors since they say Europe faces unfair competition from China and other countries.

From Barron's • Feb. 17, 2026

He brought the suit against Novolex, Inteplast, and Mettler, alleging violations of environmental marketing claims, false advertising and unfair competition laws.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 17, 2025

District Court for the Northern District of Ohio on five counts: trademark infringement, trademark dilution, unfair competition, false designation of origin and deceptive trade practices.

From Salon • Oct. 15, 2025

This is the application of the doctrine of "unfair competition" especially in cases involving "fraud" or fraudulent representation, direct or implied, leading the purchaser to buy something other than what he supposes he is buying.

From Copyright: Its History and Its Law by Bowker, Richard Rogers