categorically false

USAGE SUMMARY

"categorically false" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to convey a strong sense of disagreement or rejection. For example: His claim that the company was profitable last year is categorically false; we actually have a net loss of $50,000.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The talk, Citadel said, was "categorically false".

The New York Times

"These claims are categorically false," the statement said.

The New York Times

Later, on Tuesday night, he said it was "categorically false and defamatory".

The Guardian

Mr. Fitzpatrick has said any claim the commission is not independent is "categorically false".

The New York Times

This idea, based largely on a 1975 Newsweek story, is categorically false.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr Shapps denied the claims, calling them "categorically false and defamatory".

Independent

He called those statements categorically false and branded the people behind them tools of the Bush campaign.

The New York Times

Mr. Breuer responded, "If there's a suggestion that he's shoving things down his pants, that is categorically false and ridiculous".

The New York Times

The government's description of what that entailed is categorically false, like so many statements about our client.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Categorically, demonstrably false.

Huffington Post

He told US website Defamer that the rumours were "completely false", while a spokesperson for Yorn said the claims were "categorically untrue".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "categorically false" to firmly and clearly deny accusations or statements, leaving no room for doubt or misinterpretation. This phrase is most effective when you want to convey a sense of outrage or strong disagreement.

Common error

While "categorically false" is a strong and clear phrase, avoid using it in overly casual or informal conversations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "completely wrong" or "not true" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "categorically false" functions as a strong declaration, used to emphatically deny the truthfulness of a statement. It is an intensifier (categorically) modifying an adjective (false), strengthening the rejection. Ludwig examples confirm its use in formal denials and rebuttals.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Categorically false" is a powerful phrase used to express a strong denial or refutation of a statement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly in news and media contexts. When writing, use this phrase to firmly and clearly deny accusations or statements, leaving no room for doubt. While it is effective, consider your audience and the context to determine if a simpler phrase might be more appropriate. Remember that several alternatives, such as "absolutely false" and "utterly false", can convey a similar meaning with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

plainly false

Emphasizes the obviousness of the falsehood.

utterly false

Highlights the completeness of the falsehood.

absolutely false

Stresses the lack of any truth.

totally false

Indicates the complete absence of truth.

unequivocally false

Highlights the lack of ambiguity in the falsehood.

flatly false

Emphasizes the direct and assertive nature of the falsehood.

emphatically false

Stresses the forceful denial of truth.

explicitly false

Emphasizes that the falsehood is stated directly.

categorically untrue

Uses 'untrue' instead of 'false', conveying the same meaning.

categorically incorrect

Substitutes 'false' with 'incorrect', indicating a factual error.

FAQs

How to use "categorically false" in a sentence?

Use "categorically false" to strongly deny or refute a statement. For example, "His claim that the project was completed on time is "categorically false"; we are still months behind schedule."

What can I say instead of "categorically false"?

You can use alternatives like "absolutely false", "utterly false", or "completely untrue" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "categorically false" or "categoric false"?

"Categorically false" is the correct and commonly used phrase. "Categoric false" is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "categorically false" and "misleading"?

"Categorically false" indicates a direct and complete untruth, while "misleading" suggests something is partially true but presented in a deceptive way.