I would bet out on the flop for 2 reasons

#1 it will give you a better idea of what your opponent has. If he raises you know he hit top pair if he calls he doesn't really like his hand, but this will entice the others probably drawing dead to call as well. This allows you to either set up a check-raise on the turn if he shows strength or to just keep betting into your opponent(s) if they just call.

#2 this is less important but it shows them they should be worried when you bet into them in the future.

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