Perjury Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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perjury
[ˈpərdʒəri ]
Definitions
legal term
The offense of willfully telling an untruth in a court after having taken an oath or affirmation.
Synonyms
false swearing, lying under oath, perfidy.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| perjury |
Used in legal contexts when someone intentionally lies after taking an oath to tell the truth in court.
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| false swearing |
Similar to perjury, but it can also refer to lying under oath in non-legal settings, such as in affidavits or declarations.
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| lying under oath |
Informal phrase used to describe the act of lying after promising to tell the truth, typically in a legal setting.
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| perfidy |
Refers to deliberate betrayal or deceit, often used in a broader sense beyond legal contexts to describe treacherous behavior.
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Examples of usage
- He was found guilty of perjury for lying under oath during the trial.
- The witness was charged with perjury after giving false testimony in court.
general term
The act of lying or making false statements under oath, typically in a legal setting.
Synonyms
deceit, dishonesty, false statement.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| perjury |
Use this word when someone lies under oath in a legal setting.
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| false statement |
Use this phrase when someone makes a statement that is not true; this can be in both formal and informal contexts.
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| deceit |
This word fits when someone is being dishonest to trick or mislead others, often in a broader, non-legal context.
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| dishonesty |
This word applies in general situations where someone is not truthful or trustworthy.
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Examples of usage
- The perjury committed by the defendant significantly impacted the outcome of the case.
- The consequences of perjury can include fines, imprisonment, or both.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Definitions
- In many jurisdictions, perjury is considered a serious crime because it undermines the justice system.
- To be charged with perjury, there must be clear evidence that a person knowingly lied while testifying.
- Different countries have varying laws and penalties for perjury, reflecting how legal systems value truthfulness.
Historical Context
- The roots of the word trace back to Latin, with 'perjurare' meaning to 'swear falsely'. This highlights the longstanding importance of honest testimony.
- In medieval England, perjury was often punishable by severe penalties, including imprisonment, as it was seen as a direct challenge to the authority of the court.
- During the American Civil War, perjury laws were emphasized as a means to maintain military discipline and honesty among soldiers.
Pop Culture
- Many courtroom dramas, such as 'A Few Good Men', depict intense scenarios involving perjury, dramatizing its consequences.
- TV shows like 'Law & Order' often explore cases where witnesses face dilemmas about telling the truth or fabricating lies, bringing perjury into public interest.
- Cinematic portrayals often emphasize the dangers of lying under oath, showcasing the potential fallout in both personal and legal realms.
Psychology
- Research in social psychology suggests that people are more likely to commit perjury when they feel compelled to protect someone they love.
- Surveys indicate that some individuals underestimate the risks of lying under oath, believing they can get away with it.
- Psychological studies show that stress and fear of repercussions can drive individuals to lie, even in serious situations like court testimony.
Famous Cases
- One of the most infamous perjury cases involved President Bill Clinton during the Monica Lewinsky scandal, where he famously denied certain facts under oath.
- The case of former cyclist Lance Armstrong highlights how perjury can unravel in the face of overwhelming evidence, leading to diminished trust.
- In the 1950s, the Rosenbergs were tried for espionage, and charges of perjury emerged during testimonies, emphasizing the high stakes of truth in legal matters.
Origin of 'perjury'
The word 'perjury' originated from the Latin word 'perjurium', which means false oath. The concept of perjury has been present in legal systems for centuries, dating back to ancient Rome. Perjury is considered a serious offense as it undermines the integrity of the legal process and can lead to miscarriages of justice. Throughout history, various measures have been implemented to deter and punish perjury, reflecting the importance of truth and honesty in legal proceedings.