The scammer knew he had found a live one.
live one
idiomSomeone who is easily fooled, victimized, or ridiculed.
Origin
disputed originPossibly an allusion to hooking a particularly lively fish on a fishing line.
The salesperson spotted the tourist looking lost and realized he had found a live one.
The seasoned con artist scanned the crowded room, quickly identifying a live one who would likely fall for his elaborate scheme.
- 01
as best one can
In the best possible way, given one's circumstances and abilities.
- 02
as far as one knows
To the best of one's knowledge, as far as someone knows or possible information to be gathered about the topic, subject, aspect, or situation.
- 03
back to square one
Located back at the start, as after a dead end or failure.
- 04
beat as one
To share the same feelings.
- 05
become one flesh
To join together in marriage; to develop a unifying bond as a result of marrying.
- 06
bite off more than one can chew
To try to do too much; to take on or attempt more than one is capable of doing.
- 07
bite the big one
To perform poorly; to fail.
- 08
bite the hand that feeds one
To cause harm to a benefactor (especially one that one is dependent on, thus with the idea that this behaviour is self-damaging).
Last updated April 17, 2026