Formal and Informal Expressions of hoax

In different contexts, you can replace 'hoax' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'deception, fraud' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'trick, prank' is a commonplace synonym.

hoax: Explore its Definition & Usage

hoax Definition

1a humorous or malicious deception
2an act intended to deceive or trick

Using hoax: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "hoax" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The story about the alien invasion turned out to be a hoax.
Example
He was arrested for perpetrating a hoax on the public.
Example
The email claiming I won a million dollars was a hoax.
Example
The video of the talking dog was revealed to be a hoax.

hoax Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for hoax

Antonyms for hoax

Idioms Using hoax

fall for a hoax
to be tricked or deceived by a false story or prank
Example
Many people fell for the hoax about the new miracle weight loss pill.
play a hoax on someone
to deceive or trick someone with a false story or prank
Example
He played a hoax on his sister by telling her that their parents had bought her a pony.
hoaxster
a person who perpetrates hoaxes
Example
The famous hoaxster fooled the media with his elaborate pranks.

Phrases with hoax

pull a hoax
to deceive someone with a false story or trick
Example
He tried to pull a hoax on his friends by pretending to be a famous celebrity.
hoax call
a prank phone call made to deceive or trick someone
Example
The police received a hoax call about a bomb threat in the building.
hoax email
a fraudulent email message sent to deceive or trick someone
Example
The company warned its customers about a hoax email that asked for personal information.

Origins of hoax

from Middle English 'hokes', meaning 'a trick'

📌

Summary: hoax in Brief

'Hoax' [hoks] refers to a humorous or malicious deception, often intended to trick or deceive. It can take many forms, such as a fake news story or a fraudulent email. Phrases like 'hoax call' and 'hoax email' denote specific types of deception, while idioms like 'fall for a hoax' and 'play a hoax on someone' describe being tricked or deceiving others.