Synonym Chooser

How does the verb mislead differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of mislead are beguile, deceive, and delude. While all these words mean "to lead astray or frustrate usually by underhandedness," mislead implies a leading astray that may or may not be intentional.

I was misled by the confusing sign

When might beguile be a better fit than mislead?

In some situations, the words beguile and mislead are roughly equivalent. However, beguile stresses the use of charm and persuasion in deceiving.

was beguiled by false promises

When could deceive be used to replace mislead?

While in some cases nearly identical to mislead, deceive implies imposing a false idea or belief that causes ignorance, bewilderment, or helplessness.

tried to deceive me about the cost

In what contexts can delude take the place of mislead?

While the synonyms delude and mislead are close in meaning, delude implies deceiving so thoroughly as to obscure the truth.

we were deluded into thinking we were safe

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of mislead James filed suit, basing her claims on an extensive investigation finding that companies deviously targeted vapes to adolescents, misleading kids about the safety and legality of their products along the way. New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 23 Feb. 2025 As a result, readers of the second-generation post are misled, as was the case here. Joedy McCreary, USA TODAY, 22 Feb. 2025 But do not be misled: this is not just about who can compete on the athletic field, this is about whether a President can force compliance with his will, without regard for the rule of law that governs our nation. Jackson Thompson, Fox News, 22 Feb. 2025 Lordstown Motors, an electric pickup truck company founded in Ohio in 2018, filed for bankruptcy in 2023 and was charged by the Securities and Exchange Commission for misleading investors in 2024. Caroline Petrow-Cohen, Los Angeles Times, 19 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for mislead
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mislead
Verb
  • Despite providing historical records and even materials for a documentary on Bad Boy Entertainment in 2021, Burrowes says he was once again deceived and left unpaid for his contributions.
    Amber Corrine, VIBE.com, 27 Feb. 2025
  • Photo : Volkswagen No, your eyes do not deceive you, a Volkswagen did earn itself a spot on the list of the greatest luxury vehicles of all time.
    Raphael Orlove, Robb Report, 27 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • Look for the producer, grape variety, region, and vintage, and don’t be fooled by flashy words.
    Emily Price, Forbes, 5 Mar. 2025
  • Also, unlike its many imposters (and there are many similar looking wireless lamps out there, so don’t be fooled), the Poldina comes with a 1-year warranty on the battery and a 2-year warranty for any defects.
    Wilder Davies, Bon Appétit, 27 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • Phishing works by tricking the user, with no reliance on any particular operating system or browser.
    PCMAG, PCMAG, 7 Mar. 2025
  • Here are some alternative snacking options that can help trick your brain into feeling full.
    Alexandra Banner, CNN, 5 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Mislead.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mislead. Accessed 11 Mar. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on mislead

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