Grammar fix
buy it
believe a lie
To believe a claim, excuse, or story that may not be true.
How oftenCommon
LevelB2
Used inMostly spoken
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
I told my boss the train was delayed, but he didn't buy it.
My parents didn't buy it when I said I had finished my homework, because they could see me watching videos instead.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: He said he was ill, but I didn't buy.
Say: He said he was ill, but I didn't buy it.
'Buy' in this sense needs an object: buy it, buy that, buy his story.
Don't confuse it
Other ways to say it
Believe a lie or trick
How formalVery casualNeutral
buy itYou're here · Informally believe a claim or excuse that may be false.
fall forBe fooled by a lie, trick, or dishonest offer.take inBe deceived by something or someone that seems convincing.