gullible
What does "gullible" mean?
To be "gullible" is to be easily deceived or tricked because you are too willing to believe what others tell you. Imagine someone who takes everything at face value, like a person who would genuinely try to buy a bridge if a stranger told them it was for sale; they lack the skepticism required to question if a story or claim is actually true. This word is often used to describe someone who is naive or overly trusting. While it can be used in a teasing way among friends, it carries a slightly critical tone, implying that the person needs to be a bit more street-smart or cautious before accepting information as fact.
"gullible" in conversation
A prank at the office
Did you hear that the company is replacing all chairs with yoga balls?
Did you hear that the company is replacing all chairs with yoga balls?
Wait, really? That sounds terrible for my back.
Wait, really? That sounds terrible for my back.
Mark, you are so gullible! It was just a joke.
Mark, you are so gullible! It was just a joke.
Used here to point out someone's lack of skepticism regarding a prank.
Warning a friend
That website said I won a free cruise just for clicking this link.
That website said I won a free cruise just for clicking this link.
Don't click that, Alex. It's a scam.
Don't click that, Alex. It's a scam.
Oh, I guess I'm a bit gullible when it comes to online contests.
Oh, I guess I'm a bit gullible when it comes to online contests.
Used to admit a personal tendency to trust unreliable sources.
"gullible" in a sentence
Don't be so gullible.
Don't be so gullible.
He is too gullible to realize that they are making fun of him.
He is too gullible to realize that they are making fun of him.
Her gullible nature often makes her an easy target for dishonest salespeople.
Her gullible nature often makes her an easy target for dishonest salespeople.
