lead by the nose

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Definition

Verb (transitive) To control or manipulate someone completely, making them do whatever one wants, often by deceiving them or taking advantage of their trust. It implies having such influence over a person that they follow without question or independent thought.

Usage

This phrase is used to describe a situation where one person has total, often deceptive, control over another. It carries a negative connotation, suggesting the person being led is gullible, weak-willed, or unaware of the manipulation.

Examples
  • The corrupt advisor led the king by the nose, influencing every decision for his own benefit.
  • Don't let those smooth-talking salespeople lead you by the nose; do your own research before buying.
  • She realized her partner had been leading her by the nose for years, hiding their true intentions.
Advanced Usage
  • The phrase is often used in passive constructions to emphasize the state of being controlled.
    • He didn't realize he was being led by the nose until it was too late.
  • It can describe manipulation in various contexts: personal relationships, politics, business, or consumer affairs.
Variants and Related Words
  • Lead on (phrasal verb): To deceive someone into believing something that is not true, especially in matters of romance or expectation. (e.g., )
  • Puppeteer (noun/metaphor): A person who controls others, as a puppeteer controls marionettes.
  • Manipulate (verb): To control or influence (a person or situation) cleverly or unscrupulously.
Synonyms
  • Manipulate
  • Control
  • Dominate
  • Deceive
  • Bamboozle (as referenced)
  • Hoodwink
Antonyms
  • Emancipate
  • Liberate
  • Encourage independence
Related Idioms
  • Wrap (someone) around one's little finger: To have complete control or influence over someone.
  • Have (someone) eating out of one's hand: To have someone completely under one's control or influence.
  • Pull the strings: To control events or the actions of others, often secretly.
Verb
  1. conceal one's true motives from especially by elaborately feigning good intentions so as to gain an end
    • He bamboozled his professors into thinking that he knew the subject well

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