Words / B1

FORLS/fɔːls/

False means not true, or not real: a false statement; false teeth; a false alarm. Wrong is everyday for mistakes (the wrong answer); fake stresses a copy made to deceive (a fake passport). Untrue is close for statements. Falsely is the adverb: falsely accused. True is the opposite. Give a false name is a legal collocation.

Meaning

Not true, or not real.

Examples

• “The report contained several false statements.”
• “Several details in the form were false.”
• “It was a false alarm — there was no fire.”

Good to know

false statement / alarm / teeth. Everyday mistake: wrong. Deceptive copy: fake. Opposite: true. Adverb: falsely.

Near in meaning

untrue

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