Patently false

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Patently false" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a statement or claim that is clearly and obviously untrue. Example: "The assertion that the earth is flat is patently false, as overwhelming scientific evidence supports its spherical shape."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Patently false, perhaps, but enough to alarm the Chinese leadership.

Los Angeles Times

But that's patently false.

The New York Times

This was patently false.

The New Yorker

"That is patently false.

The New York Times

Nash deems it "patently false".

The New Yorker

The allegation is patently false.

The Guardian

The story was patently false.

The Washington Post

It is also patently false.

The New York Times - Magazine

That statement is patently false.

The New York Times

Official publications are full of patently false claims.

The Economist

"That's absolutely ridiculous and patently false," he said.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "patently false" when you want to emphasize that something is not just false, but obviously and demonstrably so. It's more impactful than simply saying something is "false."

Common error

While "patently false" is a strong phrase, it can sound overly formal or even pretentious in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "clearly untrue" or "obviously wrong" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

Patently false functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun (often a claim, statement, or assertion) to indicate its obvious untruthfulness. Ludwig examples confirm its use to directly contradict and dismiss information deemed incorrect.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "patently false" is a strong and direct way to describe something that is obviously untrue. As Ludwig confirms, it's grammatically correct and very common, particularly in news and media, but also in academia and formal business settings. While effective, consider the context; simpler terms may be more appropriate for informal settings. Related phrases like "clearly untrue" or "obviously wrong" can serve as viable alternatives depending on the tone you wish to convey. Using "patently false" correctly allows you to express disagreement and emphasize the lack of truth with precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Demonstrably false

Emphasizes that the falsity can be proven.

Undeniably false

Stresses that the falsity cannot be denied.

Clearly untrue

Simplifies the phrase, removing the formality of "patently".

Indisputably false

Similar to undeniably false, but with a more legalistic tone.

Absolutely false

Emphasizes the complete lack of truth.

Obviously wrong

Uses more common vocabulary for easier understanding.

Completely false

Another way to express the thoroughness of the falsehood.

Plainly incorrect

A straightforward and less formal way to express the idea.

Transparently false

Highlights that the falsity is easily seen through.

Blatantly untrue

Highlights the obviousness and boldness of the falsehood.

FAQs

What does "patently false" mean?

The phrase "patently false" means obviously or clearly untrue. It's used to describe a statement or claim that is easily recognized as false.

How can I use "patently false" in a sentence?

You can use "patently false" to describe a statement or claim you believe is obviously untrue. For example, "The claim that vaccines cause autism is "patently false"."

What are some alternatives to "patently false"?

Some alternatives to "patently false" include "clearly untrue", "obviously wrong", or "demonstrably false". The best choice depends on the context and the level of formality desired.

Is "patently false" formal or informal?

"Patently false" is considered a relatively formal expression. In more casual contexts, alternatives like "obviously false" or "clearly untrue" might be more appropriate.