take the bait

== English == === Etymology === An allusion to a fish swallowing a baited hook. === Pronunciation === === Verb === take the bait (third-person singular simple present takes the bait, present participle taking the bait, simple past took the bait, past participle taken the bait) (literally, fishing) To nibble at bait on a hook. Synonym: strike (figuratively) To be lured by an offer, flattery, or a provocation into doing something, especially something disadvantageous or dubious. Synonyms: bite, rise to the bait ==== Translations ==== ==== See also ==== hook, line and sinker