be tricked into

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be tricked into" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a situation where someone is deceived or misled into doing something. Example: "He was tricked into believing that the offer was legitimate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Or a robot could be tricked into killing innocent civilians.

The Guardian - Opinion

But they can be tricked into firing data at their victims.

The Economist

For example, victims could be tricked into deleting material that isn't theirs.

MIT Technology Review

Humans, too, can be tricked into scrambling their memories in specific ways.

MIT Technology Review

Research points to ways that machine-learning programs could be tricked into doing unwanted things.

MIT Technology Review

In the film, Nancy had one purpose: to be tricked into bed by Phil.

The Guardian

The economy would be "tricked" into operating at a higher gear.

The New York Times - Magazine

If the brain could be tricked into thinking that the phantom was moving, would the cramping sensations cease?

The New Yorker

And sometimes she watches me warily – she is not about to be tricked into blowing her own trumpet.

The Guardian

The result is that you can look across a sagebrush expanse and be tricked into thinking it's empty.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

I was tricked into a natural childbirth.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be tricked into", ensure that the sentence clearly identifies who is doing the tricking and what the consequence of the trickery is.

Common error

Avoid using "be tricked into" when the actor is unknown or unimportant, as it might sound awkward. Consider rephrasing to an active voice where appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be tricked into" functions as a passive construction, indicating that someone or something is the recipient of an action, specifically being deceived or manipulated into doing something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be tricked into" is a common and grammatically correct passive construction used to convey that someone has been deceived or manipulated into doing something. As evidenced by Ludwig AI, it is employed across various contexts, including news, media, and general writing. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, it is crucial to clearly identify both the deceiver and the consequences of the deception when using it. Alternatives such as "be deceived into", "be misled into", and "be fooled into" offer nuanced variations in meaning, allowing writers to tailor their language to specific situations. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, writers can effectively use "be tricked into" to enhance clarity and impact in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be deceived into

Focuses more on the act of deceiving someone.

be misled into

Highlights the act of leading someone astray.

be fooled into

Emphasizes the simplicity of the deception.

be conned into

Implies a scam or fraudulent activity.

be duped into

Suggests naivety on the part of the person being tricked.

fall for

An informal way to say someone believed a trick.

be manipulated into

Highlights the controlling aspect of the deception.

be sweet-talked into

Specifies that flattery or persuasion was used.

be bamboozled into

Suggests confusion and bewilderment.

be inveigled into

Implies skillful persuasion or flattery to achieve a goal.

FAQs

How can I use "be tricked into" in a sentence?

You can use "be tricked into" to describe a situation where someone is deceived or manipulated into doing something. For example, "He was tricked into investing in a fraudulent scheme."

What are some alternatives to "be tricked into"?

You can use alternatives like "be deceived into", "be misled into", or "be fooled into" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "be tricked into" and "be persuaded into"?

"Be tricked into" implies deception or dishonesty, while "be persuaded into" suggests convincing someone through reasoning or influence without necessarily involving deceit.

Is it correct to say "being tricked into"?

Yes, "being tricked into" is grammatically correct. It is often used as a gerund phrase functioning as a noun, for example: "Being tricked into sharing personal information can have serious consequences."