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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Compare a small fib, an altered version of the truth, and direct or repeated falsehoods.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe episode distinguishes small lies, exaggeration, partial truths, direct falsehoods, and repeated deception. The expressions describe different degrees and intentions; they are not endorsements of lying. The lesson avoids reproducing the source’s song lyrics and notes that even “small” lies can have consequences.
Cultural note: Calling someone a liar is a serious accusation. Before using these phrases, distinguish an intentional falsehood from a mistake, uncertainty, selective wording, or exaggeration. A so-called “white lie” can still affect trust, and people may disagree about when honesty or tact matters more.
Keep exploringA fib, an exaggeration, and an outright lie are not the same. These expressions make the difference easier to hear.
Phrase guide · 7 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Recognize a minor lie or a slight change to the facts.
Meaning
A small untruth someone tells to avoid hurting feelings or causing trouble.
Tone & use
Often described as harmless, but its effect depends on context. It is still a lie and can damage trust.
Example
“Rather than tell a white lie about the meal, she thanked the host and gave honest, kind feedback when asked.”
Meaning
A small or unimportant lie.
Tone & use
Informal and often used about children or minor matters. Calling something a fib can minimize its impact.
Example
“He admitted the story about meeting the actor was a fib.”
Meaning
Exaggerate or alter facts a little to make something sound better or more dramatic.
Tone & use
Informal and critical. It suggests the claim is not fully accurate, even if some part is true.
Example
“The advertisement stretched the truth about how long the battery lasts.”
Notice when a true statement leaves out key information.
Meaning
A statement that is partly false, or a true statement that leaves out important information.
Tone & use
Often implies a deliberate attempt to mislead or avoid responsibility.
Example
“Saying the fee is “only five dollars” was a half-truth because it is charged every week.”
Name an obvious falsehood or repeated pattern carefully.
Recognition caution
Meaning
An obvious or direct lie.
Tone & use
Strong and accusatory. “Barefaced lie” is another form; the source says both versions are used.
Example
“The timestamp showed that the claim was a bold-faced lie.”
A forceful accusation; verify the facts before using it.
Recognition caution
Meaning
Tell a deliberate lie confidently or without showing embarrassment.
Tone & use
Informal and highly critical. Use only when the context supports intentional deception.
Example
“The witness said the contractor lied through his teeth, but the investigator checked the records first.”
Strongly accuses someone of deliberate dishonesty.
Meaning
A series of lies told one after another.
Tone & use
Informal and emphatic. Avoid using it as a substitute for evidence when challenging a claim.
Example
“The review found that the report contained a pack of lies about the project results.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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