Definition

Adverb: Completely, totally, and without any doubt or reservation; to be deceived or persuaded in every detail.

Usage

This idiom is used to emphasize that someone believed, accepted, or fell for something entirely and unquestioningly. It is almost always used with verbs like "believe," "fall for," "swallow," or "buy" to describe a state of complete credulity or deception.

Examples

• He believed the outlandish excuse hook, line, and sinker.
• The scam was so convincing that she fell for it hook, line, and sinker.
• The politician's promises were false, but the public swallowed them hook, line, and sinker.

Advanced Usage

The phrase can be used in various tenses and with different subjects, but its core meaning of total belief or acceptance remains constant. * Past Tense: They had bought his story hook, line, and sinker. * Future Tense: If you're not careful, you'll believe it hook, line, and sinker. * With a Different Verb: The audience accepted his explanation hook, line, and sinker.

Variants and Related Words

• Hook (verb/noun): To catch or entrap; a curved piece for catching.
• Line (noun): A length of cord used in fishing.
• Sinker (noun): A weight used to sink a fishing line.

Synonyms

• Completely
• Totally
• Unquestioningly
• Wholeheartedly

Related Idioms

• Lock, stock, and barrel: Entirely, including every part (often for physical possessions or commitments).
• Heart and soul: With all one's energy and commitment.
• To take the bait: To be deceived or tricked by an offer or lie (a related fishing metaphor).

Adverb

1. in every detail
   • he believed her story hook, line, and sinker