# bend the truth

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/bend-the-truth
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To change or leave out certain facts of a story or situation, generally in order to elicit a specific response in the audience.

## Examples

- He likes to bend the truth to make his stories sound better.
- The salesman decided to bend the truth about the car's age just to make sure he closed the deal today.
- While the politician did not outright lie, he was known to bend the truth when discussing the economic impact of his new policy.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.