adjective
deceptive
dih-SEP-tiv/dɪˈseptɪv/
Likely or intended to mislead.
The apple's polished surface is deceptive because its core is rotten.
Etymology
“Take,” combined with de- meaning “from” or adding negative force, underlies a verb meaning “ensnare” or “take in.” The adjective describes something tending to take people in by misleading them.
In context
a prohibition on unfair and deceptive practices so if a company in the marketplace cheats students or customers we have the ability to go in and sue them
More examples
- The lake's calm surface is deceptive; strong currents flow beneath it.
- The company uses deceptive packaging to make small portions look larger.
- First impressions can be deceptive.
Forms
deceptive
deception noun — The act of making someone believe something false.
deceptively adverb — In a way that creates a false impression.
Similar words
- misleading
- Emphasizes creating a false impression, even without deliberate intent.
- dishonest
- Implies intentional untruthfulness, while deceptive effects can be accidental.