Deception Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Deception, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Deception?

History and Meaning of Deception

Deception is the act of intentionally misleading another person into believing something that is not true. It involves presenting false information or withholding relevant information with the purpose of causing confusion, misunderstanding, or harm to the person being deceived. Deception has been a tactic used by humans for centuries, from the use of disguises to fool enemies in warfare to the more subtle forms of deception that are common in everyday life.

Examples of Deception

1. A salesman misrepresenting the features and quality of a product to make a sale and gain profit.
2. A politician lying to their constituents about their stance on an issue in order to gain votes.
3. A person lying about their qualifications or experience on a job application or resume to secure a job they are not qualified for.
4. A magician creating an illusion to make the audience believe something impossible has occurred.

Legal Terms Similar to Deception

1. Fraud: the intentional deception or misrepresentation made for personal gain or to cause injury to another person
2. False Advertising: misleading or untrue statements about a product or service in advertising or promotional materials.
3. Misrepresentation: the deliberate misstatement or omission of fact with the intention of causing another person to rely on it to his or her detriment.