true lies

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "true lies" is not a grammatically correct part of a sentence.
However, the phrase "true" and "lies" can be used together in a sentence to mean something that is both true and untrue at the same time. This can be used to describe a paradox or a contradiction. Example: The politician's promises were full of true lies, as he made grand claims about helping the working class while supporting policies that benefitted the wealthy.

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

I'm not suggesting that any of you have lied on that grand scale but true lies are told every day, everywhere.

Huffington Post

Another form of wrestling with true lies and lying truths is called "art".

The New York Times

(Raekwon maintains that the lyric was "True lies and white guys").

The New Yorker

I feel I'm in good shape, I tend to tell true lies even if I'm writing a note of congratulations.

The Guardian - Books

Arnold Schwarzenegger is the action star of James Cameron's TRUE LIES (1994), and he's good, but Jamie Lee Curtis is the reason to watch.

The New York Times

True lies, as Arnie himself might put it.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Aaron's all-time favorite movie happens to be "True Lies".

The New York Times

Anyway, "True Lies" is definitely your favorite movie.

The New Yorker

Then, the other night, I saw True Lies on TV.

The Guardian - Film

Reporters will ride on "Predator" and "True Lies".

The New York Times

The Abyss cost $40m while True Lies came in at $100m.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for precision, rephrase "true lies" to clarify the coexistence of truth and falsehood using alternatives like "genuine fabrications" or "accurate fallacies."

Common error

Avoid using "true lies" when a straightforward description of deception suffices. This term implies a complex contradiction and may confuse readers if overused or inappropriately applied.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "true lies" functions as a stylistic device used to express a paradoxical situation, where elements of truth and falsehood coexist. It highlights contradictions. Ludwig suggests this phrase is not grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "true lies" is a stylistic expression used to describe contradictory situations, where truth and falsehood are intertwined. Ludwig AI marks this phrase as grammatically incorrect. The frequency of the expression is uncommon, predominantly appearing in news and media contexts. For clearer communication, alternative phrases like "genuine fabrications" or "factual distortions" may be preferable. Remember that while the expression is used in various contexts it is better to use alternative phrases in order to make it more clear and grammatically correct.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

genuine fabrications

Emphasizes the paradoxical nature of something presented as real but is inherently false.

authentic deceptions

Highlights the deceptive quality masked by an appearance of legitimacy.

veritable falsehoods

Stresses the undeniable existence of something that is, in essence, untrue.

honest untruths

Presents a contradiction where honesty leads to incorrect information.

sincere prevarications

Suggests that someone is deviating from the truth with good intentions or without malice.

factual distortions

Underlines how facts can be twisted or altered, making them technically untrue.

accurate fallacies

Points out the internal consistency within an argument that is ultimately wrong.

legitimate hoaxes

Implies that a deceitful plan or action has been officially sanctioned or is accepted.

reliable myths

Indicates that a traditional story or unproven concept has gained widespread acceptance and trust.

unquestionable fibs

Signifies that minor lies are accepted without challenge due to their trivial nature or the speaker's authority.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "true lies" in a sentence?

While grammatically questionable, "true lies" suggests a situation where truth and falsehood are intertwined. For clarity, consider alternatives or rephrase the sentence.

What does "true lies" mean?

The term implies something that contains elements of both truth and falsehood, often used to describe paradoxical situations or deceptive appearances.

What are some alternatives to the phrase "true lies"?

Consider alternatives like "genuine fabrications", "authentic deceptions", or "factual distortions" to convey similar meanings with greater clarity.

Is "true lies" grammatically correct?

Ludwig AI indicates that "true lies" is not grammatically correct. It is more of a stylistic or rhetorical device than a standard grammatical construction.