"Rise to the bait" is an idiomatic expression that refers to reacting impulsively and emotionally to provocation or criticism. There are various synonyms for this phrase that can be used to express a similar sentiment. For instance, one can say that someone "takes the bait" or "bites the hook" when they react to provocations. Alternatively, one might also employ phrases such as "falling into a trap," "being caught in the net," or "being reeled in" to describe the act of being easily provoked or manipulated. Regardless of the phrasing used, the central idea remains the same - to resist the temptation to react impulsively and without consideration when faced with provocation or criticism.