sucker

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'sucker' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a person who is easily fooled, gullible, or naive. For example: "That sucker fell for the oldest trick in the book!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

I'm a sucker for the pace and idealism of The West Wing.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

My first impression: I adore pondering number theory, so I am a sucker for books like this.

The Guardian

I have to admit I'm a bit of a sucker for an inspirational quote, so it's hard to pick just one.

The Guardian

Then stuck in there, waiting for a flight, drinking a burnt latte, I'll vow NEVER AGAIN... but like a sucker for punishment, I keep coming back for more.

The Guardian - Travel

"It was like a sucker punch".

The Guardian

But this was a sucker punch.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

That would have been the ultimate sucker-punch.

The Guardian - Sport

He said that as they were on the way out a friend, Steven, was "sucker-punched" from behind.

The Guardian

iPhone / iPad Stick Cricket 2 (Free + IAP) The original Stick Cricket game remains a marvellous time-sucker, and while not all App Store reviewers love this sequel, there's plenty to enjoy.

The Guardian - Tech

As usual, the GOP scores a knock-out in the tactical game, having bought up hundreds of URLs with Democratic candidates' names to blanket the search engines with sucker-ready sites to mislead and solicit faux donations.

The Economist

The vacuum cleaner is a Staubsauger ("dust-sucker"), the television a Fernseher (a "far-seer") and gloves are Handschuhe ("hand-shoes")—all the typical subject of giggles for a first-year student of the language.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sucker" to describe a person, be mindful of the potentially negative connotation. Consider whether a more neutral term like "naive" or "gullible" would be more appropriate.

Common error

While "sucker" is acceptable in informal contexts, avoid using it in formal writing where it can be perceived as unprofessional or overly colloquial. Opt for more refined vocabulary.

Linguistic Context

The word "sucker" functions primarily as a noun, referring to a person easily fooled or a type of candy. It can also function as a verb, meaning to deceive someone. Ludwig AI indicates its common usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "sucker" is versatile, functioning as both a noun and a verb, primarily used to describe someone easily fooled or a type of candy, with secondary meanings including suction cups or biological structures. Ludwig AI confirms its general grammatical correctness and usability. While it appears frequently in News & Media and Encyclopedias, it is less common in formal business settings. When writing, be mindful of the potentially negative connotation when referring to a person and choose alternatives like "naive" or "gullible" in more professional contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

easy target

Emphasizes the vulnerability aspect of being a "sucker".

easily fooled person

Replaces "sucker" with a more descriptive term for someone who is easily tricked.

gullible individual

Substitutes "sucker" with a more formal term emphasizing naivety.

duped person

Replaces "sucker" with a past participle adjective indicating someone who has been tricked.

mark

Uses a slang term for someone targeted for deception, similar to "sucker".

patsy

Another slang term for someone easily taken advantage of, like a "sucker".

fall guy

Similar to "patsy", referring to someone set up to take the blame.

chump

A more informal and somewhat derogatory term for a "sucker".

lollipop

Replaces one meaning of "sucker" (a candy) with its common name.

adhesive cup

Replaces one meaning of "sucker" (a suction cup) with a more descriptive term.

FAQs

How can I use "sucker" in a sentence?

You can use "sucker" to describe someone easily fooled, as in "He's a real sucker for get-rich-quick schemes." It can also refer to a lollipop, as in "The child enjoyed his sucker after dinner."

What's a less harsh alternative to calling someone a "sucker"?

Instead of calling someone a "sucker", consider using terms like "naive", "gullible", or "easily deceived" depending on the context.

Can "sucker" refer to anything besides a person or a lollipop?

Yes, "sucker" can also refer to a suction cup or an organ used for adhering to surfaces. For example, leeches use a "sucker" to attach to their host.

Is it appropriate to use "sucker" in business communication?

Using "sucker" in business communication is generally not recommended, as it can be perceived as unprofessional. Opt for more formal terms like "dupe" or "mark" if you need to convey that someone was taken advantage of, but consider rephrasing to avoid sounding accusatory.