# false

/ˈfɔls/ (US) · /fˈɒls/ (UK) · CEFR A1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/false
Updated: 2026-10-17

## Definition

not true or not correct. You use this to describe information that is wrong or something that is not real, like a fake smile.

For teachers: not in accordance with truth or fact; incorrect. Also describes objects or expressions that are not genuine or natural, such as artificial teeth or a forced emotion.

## Examples

- The information in the report is false.
- The witness was accused of giving false testimony to the police during the investigation.
- The philosopher argued that a false premise, no matter how logically sound the subsequent reasoning, will inevitably lead to an erroneous conclusion.

## Synonyms

wrong, incorrect, untrue, fake

## Antonyms

true, correct, real, genuine

## Pitfalls

- Not "He told a false" but "He told a lie" — False is an adjective, not a noun; use 'lie' or 'untruth' for the thing itself.

## Usage notes

- Often used in 'true or false' tests; can also mean 'artificial' when modifying nouns like 'teeth' or 'ceiling'.

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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.