“Deluded” is an adjective that describes someone who holds a false belief or opinion, often in a way that is resistant to the truth. Here are some synonyms and an analysis of each:
1. Deceived
- Analysis: “Deceived” means to be misled or tricked into believing something that is not true. For example, “He was deceived by the false advertisement.” It emphasizes the idea of being the victim of a false representation or misinformation. In comparison to “deluded,” “deceived” often implies an external source of the false belief. The person is tricked by someone or something else, whereas “deluded” can also suggest an internal self - deception where the person convinces themselves of something false.
2. Misled
- Analysis: “Misled” means to be led in the wrong direction or given wrong information that causes a false belief. For example, “The false rumors misled the public.” It is similar to “deceived” in that it emphasizes the role of incorrect information. In contrast to “deluded,” “misled” usually implies that there was some external guidance or information that led to the false belief. “Deluded” can be more about a self - imposed false perception.
3. Fooled
- Analysis: “Fooled” means to be made to look or feel foolish because one has been tricked into believing something false. For example, “She was fooled by his lies.” It has a stronger connotation of being made a fool of and implies a sense of naivete or gullibility. In comparison to “deluded,” “fooled” often emphasizes the aspect of being easily tricked. “Deluded” might suggest a more persistent or deeply - held false belief that may not necessarily be due to simple gullibility.
4. Duped
- Analysis: “Duped” means to be cheated or tricked into believing something. For example, “The con artist duped his victims into thinking they were going to get rich quick.” It emphasizes the idea of being the target of a deceitful scheme. In comparison to “deluded,” “duped” implies a more calculated and malicious act of deception from an outside source. “Deluded” can involve self - deception or a false belief that may not be the result of a deliberate con.
5. Hoodwinked
- Analysis: “Hoodwinked” means to be deceived or misled by a clever trick or subterfuge. For example, “The customers were hoodwinked into buying a low - quality product.” It has a more vivid connotation of being tricked through a sly or crafty means. In comparison to “deluded,” “hoodwinked” emphasizes the devious nature of the deception. “Deluded” is more about the state of holding a false belief, regardless of how it was acquired.
6. Illuded
- Analysis: “Illuded” (though less common than the others) means to be under an illusion or a false perception. It is very similar to “deluded” in meaning and emphasizes the state of being in a false mental state. For example, “He was illuded into thinking he was a great singer when in fact he had no talent.” The difference between “illuded” and “deluded” is quite subtle, and they can often be used interchangeably to describe someone who is laboring under a false belief.