False

Definition

False is an adjective used to describe something that is not true, real, or accurate. It can also mean deceitful or not genuine.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Adverb (archaic usage)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fɔls/
• Respelling: FAWLS

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fɔːls/
• Respelling: FAWLS

Etymology

The word "false" originates from the Latin "falsus," meaning "deceived" or "erroneous," derived from "fallere," meaning "to deceive." It entered Old English via Old French as "fals," retaining its meaning of untruth or deception.

Derivatives

• Falseness (noun)
• Falsify (verb)
• Falsity (noun)
• Falsehood (noun)
• False alarm (idiomatic phrase)

Synonyms

• Untrue
• Incorrect
• Deceptive

Antonyms

• True
• Correct
• Authentic

Usage

The adjective "false" is commonly used in contexts involving truth, accuracy, or genuineness. For example, "The statement was proven to be false," or "She wore a false smile to hide her emotions."

Related Terms

• Deception: The act of misleading or providing false information.
• Fake: Something that is not genuine or authentic.
• Erroneous: Containing errors or inaccuracies.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Not true or accurate: Refers to statements, beliefs, or claims that are incorrect or untruthful.
  • Example: "The report contained false information."
• Deceptive or not genuine: Refers to actions, appearances, or objects intended to mislead.
  • Example: "He gave a false name to avoid being recognized."
• Erroneously assumed or constructed: Used in technical contexts to denote invalid or incorrect logical states or data.
  • Example: "The system flagged the input as false due to a mismatch."

Adverb (archaic)

• In a deceitful or untrue manner: An archaic usage, rarely encountered in modern English.
  • Example: "He swore false before the court."