to be fooled into

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be fooled into" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a situation where someone is deceived or tricked into believing something or taking an action. Example: "She was fooled into thinking that the offer was genuine, only to discover it was a scam."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

It's easy to be fooled into thinking that these reforms will be positive for disabled people.

Independent

I don't want people to be fooled into thinking that special schools are the answer.

The Guardian

You would not be the first to be fooled into thinking that.

The Guardian - Sport

"We're not going to be fooled into thinking that this offense isn't a threat," Allen said.

The New York Times - Sports

Netanyahu warned Congress not to be "fooled" into thinking that Iran could be a friend in this fight.

The New Yorker

"If I wanted to be fooled into your bedroom, you wouldn't have to ask twice," the girl replied.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Still urgent four decades after its initial publication, the story of Firdaus reminds us that if there is one choice that every woman should make, it is to not be fooled into thinking that patriarchy gives women choices at all.

The Guardian - Books

Without proper authentication for NCC, the mobile user might be fooled during the user authentication phase to send his/her sensitive information to an unidentified target or be fooled into establishing a connection to retrieve services which are not recognized by legitimate NCC.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Without proper authentication for NCC, the mobile user might be fooled during the user authentication phase to send his/her sensitive information to an unidentified target or be fooled into establishing a connection to retrieve services which are not recognized by legitimate NCC.   (2) Confidential communication: Communication over wireless paths is susceptible to eavesdropping.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

BY the time it gets to be March, we can be fooled into thinking winter has passed (especially this year).

The New York Times - Food

Even if the media wanted McNabb to succeed, would his bosses be fooled into making him the highest-paid player in the NFL?

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be fooled into", ensure that the context clearly indicates who or what is doing the fooling. This enhances clarity and prevents ambiguity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using active voice when passive voice is required, as it changes the meaning. For example, "Someone fooled him into signing" is different from "He was fooled into signing."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be fooled into" functions as a passive construction indicating that someone is the recipient of a deceptive action, leading them to believe something false or take an action they wouldn't have otherwise. As Ludwig AI confirms, this construction is correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to be fooled into" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe being deceived or tricked into a particular belief or action. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media, Wiki and Scientific contexts, this phrase carries a neutral register, fitting various communication styles. The expert rating emphasizes its reliability and consistency. When using this phrase, clarity is key: make sure that the context makes it clear who or what is responsible for the deception. Considering alternatives such as "to be tricked into" or "to be deceived into" can further refine your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be tricked into

Emphasizes the act of deception and manipulation involved.

to be deceived into

Focuses on the misleading aspect, suggesting a false belief was induced.

to be duped into

Implies a lack of awareness or intelligence on the part of the person being fooled.

to be misled into

Suggests a subtle form of deception, often unintentional.

to be inveigled into

Implies persuasion through flattery or cunning.

to be conned into

Highlights the fraudulent nature of the deception.

to fall for

An idiomatic expression indicating that someone believed something false.

to be taken in by

Emphasizes the acceptance of a false pretense.

to be hoodwinked into

Indicates a blatant act of trickery or deception.

to swallow

An idiomatic expression suggesting complete acceptance of a lie or deception.

FAQs

How can I use "to be fooled into" in a sentence?

You can use "to be fooled into" to describe a situation where someone is tricked or deceived into believing something or doing something. For example, "She was "to be fooled into" thinking the offer was genuine, only to discover it was a scam".

What are some alternatives to "to be fooled into"?

Alternatives include "to be tricked into", "to be deceived into", or "to be duped into" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "to be fooled into"?

Yes, "to be fooled into" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written and spoken English. It follows the standard passive voice construction.

What is the difference between "to be fooled by" and "to be fooled into"?

"To be fooled by" typically refers to being deceived by someone or something directly, whereas "to be fooled into" implies being tricked into doing something as a result of deception. For example, "He was fooled by her lies" versus "He was "to be fooled into" signing the contract".