Search
Select the dictionary language
half the truth is often a whole lie
half the truth is no better than a whole lie
half the truth is often a whole lie
01
used to emphasize that intentionally withholding important or relevant information can be just as deceptive and harmful as telling an outright lie
Proverb
What is the origin of the proverb "half the truth is often a whole lie" and when to use it?
The proverb "half the truth is often a whole lie" is attributed to Benjamin Franklin who said the phrase in his book 'Poor Richard's Almanack' in 1735. It implies that by leaving out important information, one can manipulate perceptions and mislead others, leading to harmful consequences. The proverb serves as a reminder that honesty requires full transparency, and withholding key facts can be just as damaging as lying.
Examples
After being misled by someone who only told me part of the story, I realized how deceptive half-truths can be. Half the truth is often a whole lie.
