Phrase guide

take the bait

verb · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To nibble at bait on a hook.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: literally

Topics: fishing, hobbies, lifestyle

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: strike

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To be lured by an offer, flattery, or a provocation into doing something, especially something disadvantageous or dubious.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: figuratively

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: bite, rise to the bait

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

An allusion to a fish swallowing a baited hook.

Across languages

Translations

8 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Finnish: syödä — to nibble at bait on a hook
  • Finnish: napata — to nibble at bait on a hook
  • French: mordre à l'hameçon — to nibble at bait on a hook
  • French: piter — to nibble at bait on a hook
  • Polish: połykać przynętę — to nibble at bait on a hook
  • Polish: połknąć przynętę — to nibble at bait on a hook
  • French: mordre à l'hameçon — to be lured
  • French: piter — to be lured