untruth

Elementary (A2)

IPA: //ʌnˈtruːθ//

KK: /ʌnˈtruːθ/

noun

Definition

A statement or idea that is not true; a lie or falsehood.

Example

He was caught telling an untruth about his whereabouts last night.

Conversation

Did you hear about the rumor going around?

Yeah, it's just an untruth that people are spreading.

It's frustrating how quickly these things can escalate.

I know! It's important to stick to the facts instead.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

lie

falsehood

deceit

Antonyms

truth

fact

veracity

Root Explanation

Untruth → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "truth" (from Old English "triewð", meaning fidelity or faithfulness). The word "untruth" means something that is not true or a falsehood.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') combined with 'truth' — this helps you remember that 'untruth' refers to something that is not true.

Visually Confused Words

unruth