fool's gold
Meaning
Something that looks valuable or promising but is actually worthless, misleading, or a poor substitute for the real thing.
Origin
Originally refers to iron pyrite, a mineral that resembles real gold and often fooled inexperienced prospectors; it became a metaphor for deceptive value or false promise.
Notes
Often mildly critical: implies something is deceptive, overhyped, or a false promise. Used in everyday and business contexts; suggests someone may be misled by appearances.
Examples
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That investment looked exciting, but it turned out to be fool's gold.
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His compliment was fool's gold—nice words hiding a selfish motive.
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The early sales spike was fool's gold; demand collapsed the next month.
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Social media fame can be fool's gold if it doesn't lead to real opportunities.
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They chased fool's gold instead of focusing on steady, long-term growth.
Grammar & Usage Notes
A fixed noun phrase with possessive: “fool's gold” (not *fools gold* in standard form). Often used as a mass noun: “is fool's gold,” “turned out to be fool's gold.”
Synonyms
- false promise
- sham
- counterfeit
- illusion
- mirage
Antonyms
- the real deal
- the genuine article
- true gold
- something of real value