# falsehood

/ˈfæɫsˌhʊd/ (US) · /fˈɒlshʊd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/falsehood
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a statement that is not true. It is a more formal and slightly older word for a lie.

For teachers: a statement that is untrue or deceptive. Often carries a more formal or literary tone than 'lie'.

## Examples

- He was caught in a falsehood.
- The politician's entire campaign was built on a series of deliberate falsehoods about his past.
- The philosopher argued that the pursuit of truth requires a willingness to confront the uncomfortable reality of one's own falsehoods.

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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.