True: meaning, definitions and examples

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true

 

[ truː ]

Adjective / Noun
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adjective

in accordance with fact or reality

In accordance with fact or reality, not false or erroneous. True can also mean genuine or loyal.

Synonyms

accurate, authentic, correct.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
true

Used when describing something or someone as being loyal, steady, or honest.

  • She is a true friend.
  • He proved to be true to his promises.
accurate

Used when talking about something being precise or exact, often in regard to measurements, data, or details.

  • The report provided accurate data on the company's growth.
  • Her memory of the event was remarkably accurate.
correct

Typically used when referring to something being free of errors or mistakes, often in a context of fixing or verifying information.

  • Please check if my answers are correct.
  • The teacher corrected the student's homework.
authentic

Often refers to something being genuine or real, especially when comparing to imitations or fakes.

  • The painting turned out to be an authentic Rembrandt.
  • They sell authentic Italian cuisine at that restaurant.

Examples of usage

  • He was telling the true story of his life.
  • Only true friends will stand by you in difficult times.
  • The statement turned out to be true after all.
Context #2 | Noun

something that is real or genuine

Something that is real or genuine, not an imitation or counterfeit.

Synonyms

authentic, genuine, legitimate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
true

This term is used to describe something that is correct or accurate, or to affirm the validity of a statement or belief. It is appropriate in general conversations and situations requiring confirmation.

  • Her story turned out to be true.
  • It's true that she moved to another city.
genuine

This term is used to describe something that is sincere or actual. It applies to both objects and emotions, indicating that they are not fake or pretended.

  • He gave her a genuine smile.
  • This handbag is made from genuine leather.
authentic

This word is commonly used to describe something that is real, original, or exactly what it claims to be. It is often used with objects, documents, or experiences.

  • This is an authentic medieval sword.
  • Her emotions during the speech were authentic.
legitimate

This word is often used in legal or formal contexts to describe something that is lawful, proper, or acceptable. It can also refer to a justified argument or statement.

  • She is the legitimate heir to the throne.
  • His concerns about the project are legitimate.

Examples of usage

  • The painting was believed to be a true Picasso.
  • She found true love at last.
  • He is a true master of his craft.

Translations

Translations of the word "true" in other languages:

🇵🇹 verdadeiro

🇮🇳 सत्य

🇩🇪 wahr

🇮🇩 benar

🇺🇦 правдивий

🇵🇱 prawdziwy

🇯🇵 真実

🇫🇷 vrai

🇪🇸 verdadero

🇹🇷 doğru

🇰🇷 참된

🇸🇦 صحيح

🇨🇿 pravdivý

🇸🇰 pravdivý

🇨🇳 真实的

🇸🇮 resničen

🇮🇸 sannur

🇰🇿 шынайы

🇬🇪 ნამდვილი

🇦🇿 doğru

🇲🇽 verdadero

Etymology

The word 'true' has its origins in Old English 'treowe', which means faithful or trustworthy. Over time, the meaning expanded to include being in accordance with fact or reality. The word has been used in various contexts to emphasize authenticity and genuineness.

See also: truism, truly, truth, untrue.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #322, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.