Translation guide
The English word "untruth" refers to a statement that is not true, ranging from a deliberate lie to a simple mistake. In Japanese, the most natural way to express this depends on context: whether it's a formal accusation, a casual remark, or a euphemism. This guide covers common words and phrases for calling something an untruth, from direct terms like 嘘 (uso) to more nuanced expressions.
To say that something someone said is not true, in everyday conversation.
The most common and versatile word for 'lie' or 'untruth'. Can be used in casual and formal settings, though in very formal situations it may be softened.
それは嘘だ。
That's a lie.
彼の話は嘘だった。
His story was untrue.
A more formal or literary term for 'falsehood' or 'untruth'. Often used in written language or serious contexts.
彼の証言には偽りがあった。
There were untruths in his testimony.
A formal term for a false statement or lie. Rare in everyday speech; used in legal or literary contexts.
虚言を弄する。
To make false statements.
To soften the accusation of lying, often in formal or delicate situations.
Literally 'not a fact'. A polite way to say something is untrue without directly calling it a lie.
その発言は事実ではありません。
That statement is not true.
Similar to 事実ではない, meaning 'not the truth'. Slightly more formal.
彼の説明は真実ではない。
His explanation is not the truth.
A formal term for 'false declaration' or 'untruthful statement', used in legal or official contexts.
虚偽の申告は罰せられます。
Making a false declaration is punishable.
To stress that the untruth was intentional, not a mistake.
Explicitly means 'deliberate lie'. Used when you want to emphasize the speaker knew it was false.
それは故意の嘘だった。
That was a deliberate lie.
A made-up story or fabrication. Implies the untruth was invented, often for entertainment or deception.
彼の体験談は全部作り話だ。
His story about his experience is all made up.
To indicate that the false statement was not intentional, but an error.
Means 'mistake' or 'error'. Used when the untruth is accidental.
それは単なる間違いだった。
That was simply a mistake.
More formal than 間違い, meaning 'error' or 'inaccuracy'. Often used in written or official contexts.
English 'untruth' is often a euphemism for 'lie'. In Japanese, directly translating it as 非真実 (hi-shinjitsu) is unnatural. Use 嘘 (uso) for most cases, or soften with 事実ではない (jijitsu de wa nai) for politeness.
嘘 (uso) is the everyday word for 'lie'. 偽り (itsuwari) is more formal and often implies a deeper falsehood or deception, used in writing or serious speech.
報告書に誤りがありました。
There was an error in the report.