false
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /fɔls/
KK: /fɔls/
adjective
Definition
Not true or correct; something that is incorrect or misleading.
Example
He was accused of giving false information to the police.
Conversation
I heard some false rumors about our favorite band breaking up.
Really? I thought they were doing great together.
Yeah, it's surprising how easily people spread false information online.
Totally! We should just wait for the band to confirm or deny it.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
untrue
incorrect
deceptive
Antonyms
true
accurate
genuine
adverb
Definition
In a way that is not true or correct; in a deceptive manner.
Example
He falsely accused her of stealing.
Conversation
I can't believe she would treat him so false after everything they've been through.
Yeah, it's really disappointing to see that kind of behavior.
It makes you wonder how people can act so false to their friends.
Root Explanation
False → It originates from Old English 'fals', which comes from Latin 'falsus' (meaning deceived or untrue). The word 'false' means not true or incorrect.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old English word 'fals' which relates to being untrue or deceived — that's why 'false' means not true.
Visually Confused Words
unfalse
valse
salse
halse
frase
fause
farse
fable