No matter how clever we think we are, most of us have fallen for a ridiculous lie at some point.
Whether it’s because we’re too trusting or just caught off guard, it happens. That being said, some lies are so obvious you can’t help but laugh once the truth comes out. Here are 16 things only the truly gullible tend to believe.
1. “I read and agree to the terms and conditions.”
We’ve all checked the box, but let’s be real—who actually reads them? Companies know most people won’t, which is why this line is such a classic fib. Nobody’s memorising those 87 pages of legal jargon. If someone says they’ve read every word, they’re either lying or have far too much free time.
2. “Your call is very important to us.”
Ah, the eternal hold music lie. If your call were truly important, they wouldn’t leave you hanging for 45 minutes listening to the same looping tune. Companies throw this line out there hoping it will keep you patient. Spoiler: it never does.
3. “This won’t hurt a bit.”
Doctors, dentists, and anyone holding a needle love saying this, but we all know the truth—it’s going to sting, pinch, or downright hurt. It’s their way of softening the blow, literally. Bonus points if they follow it up with, “You’ll just feel a little pressure.” Sure, Doc. Sure.
4. “I’m five minutes away.”
This classic lie has been told by everyone who’s ever been late. It’s never five minutes; it’s at least 15. If someone texts this, they probably haven’t even left yet. Don’t believe them until you hear their car pulling up.
5. “I didn’t see your text.”
Unless they’ve been living off-grid or their phone fell into the ocean, chances are they saw your message. We all live with our phones glued to us, so this excuse rarely holds up. The truth? They probably just didn’t feel like replying, and that’s okay—just don’t lie about it!
6. “I’ll pay you back next week.”
Borrowing money often comes with promises of quick repayment, but next week rarely ever happens. Whether it’s $5 or $500, it’s amazing how “next week” can stretch into infinity. If you’re still waiting, maybe next week is now next year.
7. “You can’t taste the difference.”
Diet soda, sugar-free desserts, or any “healthier” alternative always come with this claim. But let’s face it—you *can* taste the difference. It might not be bad, but pretending it’s identical? That’s a lie only the gullible accept without question.
8. “I’ll only watch one more episode.”
This lie is whispered to ourselves during every binge-watching session. We *know* it’s not true, but we say it anyway. The next thing you know, it’s 3 a.m., and Netflix is asking, “Are you still watching?” We lied to ourselves—and Netflix knows it.
9. “I’m fine.”
This one’s tricky because it’s the universal cover-up for not being fine at all. Whether it’s a bad day, an argument, or a stubbed toe, “I’m fine” usually means, “Ask me what’s really wrong.” Gullible people take it at face value and miss the entire subtext.
10. “We’re just friends.”
This is the go-to line for people trying to dodge questions about a suspiciously close relationship. If two people spend all their time together and have that undeniable spark, calling them “just friends” might fool the naïve—but not the rest of us. Actions speak louder than words, folks.
11. “I know what I’m doing.”
Whether it’s someone assembling furniture without the instructions or pretending to be a grill master, this phrase is rarely backed by actual expertise. Gullible people believe it, only to see the person struggle five minutes later. Sometimes, admitting you need help isn’t such a bad thing!
12. “The check’s in the mail.”
From landlords to friends who owe you cash, this excuse has been used for decades. It’s the ultimate stall tactic, and gullible folks wait by the mailbox expecting it to arrive. Pro tip: if someone says this, don’t hold your breath.
13. “I don’t usually do this.”
Whether it’s a first date or a spontaneous adventure, this line is often dropped to sound unique or mysterious. But more often than not, they probably *do* usually do this. It’s harmless, but let’s not pretend it’s a once-in-a-lifetime behaviour.
14. “This email finds you well.”
Ah, the corporate lie that kicks off so many work emails. Does anyone actually believe the sender cares how you’re doing? It’s just a formality, and we all know it. But hey, it softens the blow of whatever awkward request follows, so we let it slide.
15. “We’ll keep in touch.”
Source: Unsplash After catching up with an old friend or colleague, this phrase is often tossed around to avoid an awkward goodbye. But unless one of you actually reaches out, the chances of staying in touch are slim. Gullible people might wait by their phones, but the rest of us know better.
16. “You won’t regret this.”
This is the ultimate sales pitch, whether it’s for a product, a favour, or a risky decision. While it sounds reassuring, regrets are almost always possible. If someone says this, double-check their motives before diving in. Regrets don’t ask for permission to show up later.
