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."
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.