What does to swallow the bait means?

The phrase "to swallow the bait" is a metaphor that means to be deceived or tricked by someone. It is often used to describe someone who has fallen for a trap or scheme that was set for them.

The phrase comes from the idea of baiting a hook with food to catch fish. When a fish swallows the bait, it is hooked and can be caught. In a similar way, when someone swallows the bait, they are caught by the deception and can be taken advantage of.

The phrase "to swallow the bait" is often used in a negative way, to describe someone who has been foolish or gullible. However, it can also be used in a positive way, to describe someone who has been clever or resourceful enough to catch someone in their own trap.

Here are some examples of how the phrase "to swallow the bait" might be used:

* "He swallowed the bait and gave them all his money."

* "She swallowed the bait and believed his lies."

* "They swallowed the bait and walked right into the trap."

* "He swallowed the bait and fell for the con artist's scheme."