Fudged Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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fudged
[fʌdʒd ]
Definition
manipulation, deception
To fudge something means to avoid making a clear or direct statement, often by being evasive or ambiguous. This term is commonly used when someone is attempting to manipulate facts, figures, or situations to benefit themselves or to avoid responsibility. It can also indicate a lack of precision in reporting or making claims that are not entirely accurate. The act of fudging may involve exaggerating, lying, or misrepresenting information.
Synonyms
evade, manipulate, misrepresent.
Examples of usage
- He fudged his expense report to get more money.
- The politician fudged the statistics during the debate.
- She tends to fudge the truth when asked difficult questions.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In films and television, characters that 'fudge' facts often find themselves in humorous situations, highlighting the consequences of dishonesty.
- The word appears in various song lyrics and poetry, often symbolizing the struggle between truth and embellishment.
Psychology
- People might 'fudge' details due to cognitive bias, where they unconsciously alter facts to align with their beliefs or desires.
- Research has shown that when under pressure, individuals may be more likely to skew facts to avoid negative consequences.
Business Ethics
- In corporate settings, 'fudging' data can lead to serious ethical violations, affecting public trust and leading to legal repercussions.
- Business scandals, such as accounting fraud, often involve individuals 'fudging' figures to present a healthier company image.
Literature
- In many classic novels, characters may 'fudge' the truth as a plot device to create tension or resolve conflict.
- Authors often explore themes of honesty and deception, with protagonists finding themselves in situations where they must choose between truth and convenience.
Origin of 'fudged'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'fudge' originally referred to a type of soft chocolate candy, which emerged in the early 19th century, around the same time the verb form developed.
- In the late 1800s, 'to fudge' began to be used in slang to mean 'to falsify or fabricate', reflecting a shift from sweet treats to deceitful actions.
The term 'fudge' originated in the 18th century, likely derived from the 18th-century British phrase 'to fudge on the truth,' which meant to evade the truth or to be vague about the facts. It was first recorded in print in the 1750s, while the verb form began to appear in the early 19th century. Fudging was initially associated with academic or professional dishonesty, often linked to manipulating figures in financial statements or academic tests. The term later evolved to encompass a broader range of evasive behavior, commonly used in both casual conversation and formal contexts. Over the years, 'fudge' also entered culinary lexicon, denoting a type of soft, rich chocolate confection, thus reflecting the multifaceted nature of the word in different contexts.