delude

/di'lu:d/

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Word: Delude

Part of Speech: Verb

Usage Instructions:

• "Delude" is often used when someone is tricked into believing in a false idea or reality.
• It can refer to both intentional deception and self-deception (when someone tricks themselves).

Example Sentences:

1. Simple Example: "She deluded herself into thinking she could pass the test without studying."
2. More Complex Example: "The magician deluded the audience with his amazing tricks, making them think he could read minds."

Advanced Usage:

• In literature or psychology, "delusion" can refer to a false belief that is strongly held despite evidence to the contrary.
• In discussions about mental health, "delusion" can describe a serious condition where a person believes things that are clearly false.

Word Variants:

• Noun: Delusion (the act of deluding or the false belief itself)
  • Example: "His delusions about being a famous singer were amusing to his friends."
• Adjective: Delusive (leading to a false belief)
  • Example: "The delusive promises of the advertisement made many people buy the product."

Different Meanings:

• General Use: The term can also refer to creating a false impression, not just in a personal context but in situations such as marketing or politics.

Synonyms:

• Mislead
• Deceive
• Trick
• Fool
• Con

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Delude oneself": To trick oneself into believing something that is not true.
  • Example: "He deluded himself into thinking he was ready for the marathon without training."

Summary:

"Delude" is about creating false beliefs in others or oneself. It's important to use this word carefully because it implies dishonesty or trickery.

Academic

Verb

1. be false to; be dishonest with

Synonyms

• deceive
• lead on
• cozen