gullible

What does “gullible” mean?

adjective.easily persuaded to believe something; credulous.

SAT Usage

this term often appears in passages discussing themes of deception, manipulation, or critical thinking. It implies a lack of skepticism or discernment in believing others, emphasizing the vulnerability of individuals to persuasion, which differs from similar words like "naive," which suggests innocence rather than a susceptibility to belief.

Common Confusions

Gullible implies a readiness to believe without skepticism, while naive usually suggests a lack of experience or sophistication rather than a specific susceptibility to deception.

Example Sentences

• The gullible tourist paid twice the price for a fake souvenir.

• Despite countless warnings, the gullible tourist fell for the street vendor's elaborate scam, paying far too much for a worthless trinket.

Related Words