flatter to deceive

flatter to deceive

To seem better or more promising than someone or something really is. A: "I can't believe that team didn't make the playoffs after starting the season so well." B: "I guess they just flattered to deceive."See also: deceive, flatter

flatter to deceive

encourage on insufficient grounds and cause disappointment. 1913 Field Two furlongs from home Maiden Erlegh looked most dangerous, but he flattered only to deceive. See also: deceive, flatter