benefit of the bargain

: the advantage that would be or have been gained under a contract if completed as agreed; specifically : the difference between the actual value of property and the value of property as it is represented in case of misrepresentation — called also benefit of one's bargain, loss of bargain ; compare out-of-pocket rule : the difference between the actual value of property and the value of property as it is represented in case of misrepresentation — called also benefit of one's bargain, loss of bargain ; compare out-of-pocket rule