categorically untrue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "categorically untrue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to assert that something is completely false or not true in any way. Example: "The claims made in the article are categorically untrue and lack any factual basis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

This is categorically untrue".

The Guardian

It is categorically untrue.

The Guardian

"This allegation is categorically untrue," Tarry said.

The Guardian

It is simply and categorically untrue".

The Guardian

"It is categorically untrue, categorically untrue, that Cambridge Analytica has never used Facebook data," Wylie said.

The New Yorker

The spokesman said: "The allegation is categorically untrue".

Independent

This has been denied as "categorically untrue" by her publicist.

The Guardian

A spokesman for Clegg added: "This is categorically untrue.

The Guardian

However, it described rumours that LeBlanc had made an ultimatum as "categorically untrue".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But the company insisted that it is "categorically untrue" to say that safety had been compromised.

The Guardian

Later I check with the journalist, who says the offer to pay is categorically untrue.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "categorically untrue" to firmly and directly deny a statement, leaving no room for ambiguity. It is effective in formal contexts where clarity and decisiveness are valued.

Common error

Avoid using "categorically untrue" in casual conversations or informal writing, as it may sound overly formal or aggressive. Simpler denials are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "categorically untrue" functions as an emphatic denial. It's used to strongly negate a statement or accusation, indicating that it is completely false and without any basis in truth. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "categorically untrue" is a strong and direct way to deny a statement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly in news and formal contexts. While effective for clarity and decisiveness, its formal tone may not be suitable for casual settings. Consider alternatives like "absolutely false" or "completely fabricated" to adjust the level of emphasis. When used appropriately, "categorically untrue" serves as a powerful tool for refuting false claims.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Absolutely false

Emphasizes the complete lack of truth, similar to "categorically untrue" but potentially with a slightly stronger emotional tone.

Unequivocally false

Stresses the lack of ambiguity or doubt in the falseness, mirroring the certainty of "categorically untrue".

Positively untrue

Stresses the certainty that something is not true.

Completely fabricated

Highlights the invented nature of the statement, suggesting a deliberate creation of falsehood.

A total fabrication

Similar to 'completely fabricated,' this emphasizes the invention of the statement.

Blatantly false

Emphasizes the obvious and easily detectable nature of the falsehood.

Flatly denied

Focuses on the act of denial, indicating a direct and firm rejection of the statement's truth.

Wholly inaccurate

Focuses on the lack of accuracy in the statement, suggesting a departure from facts.

Simply not true

Offers a straightforward and clear denial, lacking the intensity of "categorically untrue" but maintaining clarity.

Outright lie

Directly labels the statement as a lie, conveying a strong accusation of intentional deception.

FAQs

What does "categorically untrue" mean?

The phrase "categorically untrue" means something is absolutely false and there is no doubt about it. It's a strong way to deny something.

How to use "categorically untrue" in a sentence?

You can use "categorically untrue" to firmly deny a statement. For example, "The allegation that I was involved in the scandal is "categorically untrue"."

What can I say instead of "categorically untrue"?

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

Is "categorically untrue" formal or informal?

"Categorically untrue" leans towards the formal side. In informal settings, something like "that's just not true" might be more appropriate.