Falsehood: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a statement that is not true; often can be formal or literary.

• The politician was accused of spreading falsehoods
• The book debunked several historical falsehoods

Similar to 'dishonesty,' but slightly more formal; typically used to describe someone's character or habitual behavior.

• Untruthfulness is a trait that is hard to overcome
• The witness's untruthfulness was evident during the trial

A general term for behavior that lacks honesty; often used in everyday situations to describe someone who is not truthful or trustworthy.

• Dishonesty will not be tolerated in this classroom
• The accountant was fired for his dishonesty

Implies deliberate intent to mislead or trick someone; often used in serious contexts to emphasize the wrongful nature of the act.

• Her deceit led to the downfall of the company
• He was punished for his deceitful behavior

This word is commonly used to describe a statement that is not true. It can range from a minor lie to a significant deception. It is often used when emphasizing the nature of being untrue.

• He was caught in his falsehood during the meeting.
• The article is filled with blatant falsehoods.

Misinformation refers to false or inaccurate information that is spread, regardless of intent to deceive. It is often used in the context of media, social networks, and public information.

• The campaign aimed to combat the spread of misinformation.
• She fell victim to misinformation circulating on social media.

A fallacy refers to a mistaken belief, especially one based on unsound argument or logic. It is often used in academic, philosophical, or logical discussions.

• The argument is based on a common fallacy.
• It is a fallacy to assume that more money always leads to more happiness.

Fabrication implies something that has been made up, often with considerable effort and for specific purposes, like stories or evidence. It usually carries a negative connotation.

• The entire story was a complete fabrication.
• She was accused of fabricating evidence to support her claims.

A general term for something that is not true. It can be used in both formal and informal situations without heavy negative connotations.

• The politician was caught in a falsehood during the debate.
• It's difficult to separate falsehood from truth in this story.

Indicates a false display of feelings, attitudes, or intentions, often to hide the true nature of actions. It is usually used in more formal contexts and carries a negative connotation.

• Under the pretense of helping, he was actually making things worse.
• Her friendliness was nothing but a pretense.

Refers to the act of causing someone to believe something that is not true, with an element of intent to mislead. It often carries a negative connotation and is used in contexts relating to trickery or dishonesty.

• His deception left his friends feeling betrayed.
• The company was fined for deceptive advertising.

Refers to the act of causing something to appear true when it is not, often without the malicious intent associated with deception. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts.

• The children were pretending to be superheroes.
• He was pretending to be asleep when his mother entered the room.