half-truth

noun

Definition of half-truthnext
as in lie
a statement that is only partly true and that is intended to deceive people I'm tired of all these half-truths—I want to know the real story.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of half-truth This is a dangerous half-truth. — Randy Niemeyer, Chicago Tribune, 13 Mar. 2026 Don’t settle for half-truths; seek meaningful joy. — Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 Feb. 2026 Some information is useful, some is harmful and some are half-truths that can cost you real money. — Miriam Fauzia, Dallas Morning News, 18 Feb. 2026 People who rely on half-truths often underestimate how visible their behavior becomes. — Johnny C. Taylor Jr, USA Today, 3 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for half-truth
Recent Examples of Synonyms for half-truth
  1. lie
  2. tale
  3. story
Noun
  • Further in lies a kitchen with parquet flooring, an Esmeralda marble island, and contrasting brass finishes.
    — Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 18 Aug. 2026
  • And while the public may understand a leader’s deception for security reasons, there are many other situations in which people may not forgive a lie.
    — Megan Poinski, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026
Definition of lie
Noun
  • But the tale is even more poignant now, because as part of the team’s offensive transformation, fueled by the hiring of former Miami Dolphins offensive coordinator Frank Smith, the Vikings are handing Bredeson a hefty role.
    — Alec Lewis, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026
  • The two dashing newcomers have since been regaling the Georgia Aquarium’s existing belugas, a quartet of females*, with tales of their peregrinations.
    — AJ Willingham, AJC.com, 17 Aug. 2026
Definition of tale
Noun
  • The week’s biggest stories Animal and pet sagas Big Bear celebrity eagle Shadow has been seen with a new eagle at the nest.
    — Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 15 Aug. 2026
  • As a preteen, I became absorbed in the life of Davy Crockett, Wild Bill Hickok and others through stories written for my age group.
    — Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 15 Aug. 2026
Definition of story

Browse Nearby Words

half-pints
half-truth
half-truths
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Half-truth.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/half-truth. Accessed 20 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on half-truth

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about half-truth

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