What does it mean to be gullible Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈɡʌlɪbəl/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

Easily deceived or manipulated; lacking in critical judgment or skepticism. A person who is gullible is more likely to believe or accept something without questioning its validity or accuracy.

Examples

• The scammer preyed on the gullible tourist, convincing him to hand over his wallet.
• She was gullible and believed everything her friend told her, even the obvious lies.

Synonyms

• Credulous
• Narcissistic
• Naive

Antonyms

• Skeptical
• Cautious
• Discerning

Additional Information

Gullibility can be a result of various factors, including lack of experience, poor critical thinking skills, or a trusting nature. It’s essential to be aware of one’s own gullibility and take steps to develop critical thinking skills to avoid being deceived or manipulated.

In today’s digital age, gullibility can be particularly problematic, as people are exposed to a vast amount of information, some of which may be false or misleading. It’s crucial to be cautious when consuming information online and to verify facts before accepting them as true.

Moreover, gullibility can have serious consequences, such as financial loss, emotional distress, or even physical harm. Therefore, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to protect oneself from being taken advantage of.

Eymology

The word “gullible” originated in the 15th century from the Old French word “gullier,” meaning “to deceive or cheat.” It is derived from the Latin word “gullire,” which means “to swallow” or “to gulp down.”

Usage Notes

The word “gullible” is often used to describe someone who is easily deceived or manipulated. However, it can also be used to describe a situation or a circumstance that is likely to deceive or mislead someone.

Cultural References

The concept of gullibility has been explored in various forms of media, including literature, film, and television. For example, the character of Tom Sawyer in Mark Twain’s novel “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” is often depicted as gullible and naive.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “To take someone for a ride” (to deceive or manipulate someone)
• “To pull the wool over someone’s eyes” (to deceive or mislead someone)

Related Words or Phrases

• Credulity
• Naivety
• Susceptibility

Collocations

• “Gullible nature”

Frequency of Use

The word “gullible” is commonly used in everyday conversation, particularly in situations where someone is being deceived or manipulated. It is also frequently used in academic and professional settings to describe a person’s or a situation’s vulnerability to deception or manipulation.

Common Misspellings

• “Gullable”