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delude
This term carries a strong connotation of deception that leads to a profound error in judgment. It differs from simple lying in that it implies a sustained state of false belief, often creating a psychological bubble where the victim is blinded to reality. It is frequently used in the context of self-deception, where an individual ignores evidence to maintain a comforting but false narrative.
In professional or formal writing, it suggests a tragic or foolish blindness. While deceive is a broad term for any act of trickery, delude specifically emphasizes the resulting mental state of the person being fooled, highlighting the gap between their perception and the actual truth.
Meanings
To make someone believe something that is not true, often leading them to a false conclusion or a state of self-deception.
He deluded himself into believing that the project would be a success despite the lack of funding.
Phrasal Verbs
delude oneself into
to deceive oneself into believing a falsehood
She deluded herself into thinking that he would eventually return.