Words / C1

FORLS-if-eye/ˈfɔːlsɪfaɪ/

To falsify is to change a record, figure, or document so that it is no longer true: falsify accounts, falsify an n. Fake is everyday and wider; forge (this batch) can mean fake a signature, or build something; fraudulent (this batch) is the adjective. Do not call an invented count formatting.

Meaning

To change a record or figure so that it is no longer true.

Examples

• “To falsify an n is misconduct, not a formatting choice.”
• “Lie is everyday speech. Fabricate (already in the dictionary) is to invent. Amend is a legitimate correction with a trail. A methods cell is evidence. A prettier PDF is not a reason. File the true n, or file a dated correction.”

Good to know

Make a record untrue. Everyday: fake. Close: fabricate (already in the dictionary). Adjective: fraudulent (this batch). Formatting ≠ a new n.

Near in meaning

fabricate

New