substantially untrue

USAGE SUMMARY

"substantially untrue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a statement that is largely untrue but contains a partial element of truth. For example, "His description of the situation is substantially untrue; while some of the details are correct, the overall picture is very different."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The proposition that the referendum is only a matter for the inhabitants of Scotland has become a mantra, but is of course substantially untrue.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Untrue, untrue," he mutters.

Independent

Patently untrue.

The Guardian - Sport

Totally untrue.

The New York Times

Both untrue.

Independent

Tragically, untrue.

The Guardian - Tech

And untrue.

The New York Times - Sports

That is simply untrue.

Independent

"The allegations are untrue.

The New York Times

That proved untrue.

The New York Times

"Completely untrue!" I thundered.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "substantially untrue", clarify which parts are true to avoid ambiguity and maintain credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "substantially untrue" when the statement is completely false; instead, use phrases like "completely false" or "entirely untrue."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantially untrue" functions as an adjectival modifier, specifically modifying a noun or noun phrase to indicate that something is largely but not entirely false. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with numerous examples of the phrase modifying statements or claims.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "substantially untrue" is used to describe something that is mostly false but contains some elements of truth. It functions as an adjectival modifier, typically found in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. When employing this phrase, ensure you are precise about which aspects are untrue to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "largely inaccurate" or "mostly false", offering similar shades of meaning. Being aware of the fine line between "substantially untrue" and "completely untrue" is essential for precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mostly false

Indicates that the majority of the statement is incorrect.

not entirely accurate

Suggests a general lack of precision and correctness.

largely inaccurate

Emphasizes the significant degree of factual errors.

not wholly true

Indicates that there are elements of falsehood present.

somewhat misleading

Focuses on the deceptive aspect of the statement.

not quite the truth

A milder way of saying something isn't entirely honest.

partially incorrect

Highlights that only a portion of the information is wrong.

partly fabricated

Implies that some elements of the statement were invented.

more fiction than fact

Highlights that the untrue elements outweigh the truthful ones.

a gross exaggeration

Emphasizes the inflated or overstated nature of the untruth.

FAQs

How can I use "substantially untrue" in a sentence?

You can use "substantially untrue" to describe a statement that has elements of truth but is largely false. For example, "His account of the events was "substantially untrue", as it omitted key details."

What's a more formal way to say "substantially untrue"?

More formal alternatives include "largely inaccurate", "mostly false", or "not entirely accurate". These phrases maintain a professional tone while conveying that the information is not entirely truthful.

What can I say instead of "substantially untrue" if I want to emphasize the misleading aspect?

If you want to highlight the misleading nature of the statement, consider using "somewhat misleading" or "deceptive". These phrases focus on the intent to deceive rather than just the inaccuracy of the information.

Is "substantially untrue" the same as "completely untrue"?

No, "substantially untrue" implies that some parts of the statement might be true, while "completely untrue" means that the entire statement is false. Using "substantially untrue" suggests a mix of truth and falsehood.