a complete liar

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complete liar" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is entirely untruthful or dishonest. Example: "After hearing all the false claims he made, I realized he is a complete liar."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

A complete liar.

Independent

Blair was a "complete liar" for suggesting otherwise.

Vice

Is Republican senator Jon Kyl a moron or just a complete liar?

Huffington Post

A source said the aspiring rapper is "delusional" and a "complete liar," who has been falsely linked to other celebrities in the past.

Huffington Post

Notoriously unreliable, massively successful New York writer Michael Wolff has called notoriously notorious, massively wealthy freelance diplomat Tony Blair a "complete liar".

Vice

What he writes in the book – that Blair was looking for a specific job as Middle East envoy – is a little different to what he told Marr: that Blair was "sucking up" to Jared Kushner and that Blair "is a complete liar" for denying he was looking for a job.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"Either he was telling the truth or he was a complete pathological liar," Officer Serino replied.

The New York Times

I also heard you're a complete fucking liar because there isn't a more perfect piano house record than "Happy House" and piano house is pretty much the most perfect genre of music that's ever existed.

Vice

"Nicole and Laura are complete liars.

Huffington Post

Drug addicts are utter and complete liars, and I believe that [caring for them is not my responsibility], it is the medical centres'".

BMC Family Practice

"Bring everything you have, because we are going to demonstrate to the world what a complete shyster and liar you are," tweeted Avenatti.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "a complete liar" when you want to strongly emphasize someone's dishonesty and lack of credibility.

Common error

While "a complete liar" is understandable, it can be perceived as harsh. In formal writing or professional settings, consider using less accusatory alternatives like "untruthful" or "misleading" to maintain a more neutral tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complete liar" functions as a noun phrase, specifically a descriptive label or identifier. It is used to categorize someone based on their perceived characteristic of being entirely dishonest, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a complete liar" is a strong assertion used to describe someone who is considered entirely dishonest. Ludwig's analysis shows the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly found in news and media contexts. While effective in conveying disapproval, it's crucial to consider the context and potential impact before using such a direct accusation. For more formal settings, alternatives like "untruthful" or "misleading" might be more suitable. Understanding the nuances and implications of this phrase can help writers and speakers use it effectively and appropriately. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase "a complete liar" is correct and usable in written English. It can be used to describe someone who is entirely untruthful or dishonest.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an out-and-out deceiver

This highlights the blatant and undeniable nature of the deception.

an utter fabricator

This emphasizes the act of inventing or fabricating stories.

a consistent untruth teller

This phrase directly states the act of not telling the truth.

a consummate deceiver

This suggests a skilled and practiced liar.

a master of mendacity

This conveys a high degree of skill in lying and deception.

a total fibber

This is a more informal and lighthearted way of saying someone is a liar.

a dyed-in-the-wool falsifier

This emphasizes that the lying is ingrained and unchangeable.

a habitual prevaricator

This highlights the repetitive nature of the person's lying.

a pathological falsifier

This suggests a psychological condition where lying is compulsive.

a straight-up story teller

This emphasizes the intention of the person is to tell a story (not necessarily with a bad intention).

FAQs

What does it mean to call someone "a complete liar"?

Calling someone "a complete liar" means that you believe they are entirely dishonest and untruthful in their words and actions.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a complete liar"?

This phrase is best used when you have strong evidence or personal conviction that someone is being deliberately dishonest. Consider the impact of such a strong accusation before using it.

What are some less accusatory alternatives to "a complete liar"?

Instead of saying "a complete liar", you could use phrases like "untruthful", "misleading", or "dishonest" depending on the specific context and your desired level of directness.

How does "a complete liar" differ from "a liar"?

Adding "complete" intensifies the accusation, suggesting that the person's dishonesty is pervasive and without exception. It's a stronger statement than simply calling someone "a liar".