# falsely

/ˈfɔɫsɫi/ (US) · /fˈɒlsli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/falsely
Updated: 2026-05-03

## Definition

in a way that is not true or correct. You use this when someone says or does something that gives a wrong impression.

For teachers: in a manner that is incorrect, untrue, or deceptive. Often describes actions that lead to a wrongful accusation or a mistaken belief.

## Examples

- He was falsely accused of stealing the money.
- The witness was found to have testified falsely during the trial, leading to a mistrial.
- The marketing campaign was criticized for falsely implying that the product was organic when it actually contained several synthetic additives.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He spoke false to me." but "He spoke falsely to me." — Learners often use the adjective 'false' where the adverb 'falsely' is required to modify a verb.

## Usage notes

- Typically modifies verbs related to communication or legal status, such as 'accuse', 'claim', or 'testify'.

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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.