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fall for — 2 meanings

One phrase, 2 different jobs. Tap a meaning to jump to it — then lock each one in by saying it out loud.

phrasal verb2 meanings
  1. 1 be trickedTo believe something that is not true, often because someone is trying to trick or deceive you.
  2. 2 fall in love withTo start feeling strong romantic love for someone.
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All meanings, in depth

Ordered by how often you'll hear each one — the meaning tells you what it does, the examples and tips show it in use.

1

be tricked

B1fall for sthspokenMost common

To believe something that is not true, often because someone is trying to trick or deceive you.

I can't believe I fell for that fake email and almost gave them my password.

A: Did you really think that message was from the bank?
B: Yeah, I totally fell for it. I feel so silly now.

Some people fall for online scams because the messages look very real and convincing.

Common mistake

Don't fall for to his tricks.

Don't fall for his tricks.

'Fall for' takes the trick/lie directly — no 'to'.

Tell it apart

I can't believe I fell for it.

was tricked

I can't believe I fell for her.

fell in love with her
Use this when someone is fooled by a lie, trick, or scam.Not about romantic feelings; it's about being deceived.

Often paired with

fall for + trick
2

fall in love with

B1fall for sthspoken

To start feeling strong romantic love for someone.

He fell for his best friend after spending so much time together.

A: How did you two meet?
B: We worked together, and I just fell for her.

Many people fall for someone they meet at university because they share similar interests.

Common mistake

He fell for with his coworker.

He fell for his coworker.

'Fall for' takes the person directly — no 'with' (that's 'fall in love with').

Tell it apart

She fell for him on the first date.

fell in love

She fell for his lies.

was tricked by them
Use this when talking about developing romantic feelings for someone.Not about being tricked; it's about romantic feelings.

Often paired with

fall for + person

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