take the shadow for the substance
English
Etymology
Traditional, particularly in sermons; attested since 1818.[1]
Pronunciation
Audio (AU) (file)
Verb
take the shadow for the substance
- (idiomatic) To be easily deceived, credulous, superficial.
References
- Sermons on Important Subjects, by Oliver Hulburd, Nathan S S Beman, Published by Francis Burnap, 1818, p. 111