Lead up the garden path Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To deliberately deceive someone by making them believe something that is not true, often by giving them false hope or misleading information.
Usage & Nuances
This British idiom is informal and usually used in negative situations where someone is being tricked or misled. Commonly found in conversation or writing to describe deception especially with false hope. Not used in American English as frequently; alternatives include 'lead someone on' or 'pull the wool over someone's eyes.'
Example Sentences
He led me up the garden path with promises of a promotion.
basic
Don’t let anyone lead you up the garden path with fake news.
basic
She felt hurt after being led up the garden path by her friend.
basic
I can't believe you led me up the garden path all this time!
natural
They were led up the garden path into thinking the project would be easy.
natural
I almost bought that car, but luckily I realized they were leading me up the garden path.
natural