truth
That which is real, accurate, and corresponds to fact.
Word facts
Definition
Truth is a statement or belief that accurately reflects what is real, factual, or correct. Something that is true corresponds to reality and can withstand scrutiny and evidence.
Usage: Truth is absolute in formal logic — a statement is true or not. In everyday use, partial truths and perspectives complicate things. Honesty is about telling the truth; accuracy is about being correct.
Example sentences
- 1
The truth is often more complicated than any simple answer suggests.
- 2
She spoke the truth even when it was uncomfortable to do so.
- 3
Discovering the truth about the incident took months of careful investigation.
Word family
From Old English trēowth ('faithfulness, honesty'), from trēow ('belief, pledge, faith'). Truth originally meant faithfulness and has always been connected to trust.
Truth, trust, and true all share the same ancient root. What is true can be trusted. Truth is what trust is built on.
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FAQ
Questions people ask
What is the adjective form of truth?
Truthful (honest, telling the truth) and true (accurate, correct).
What does 'tell the truth' mean?
It means to say what you genuinely believe to be accurate and real, without deception.