Words / B1

LEYE-uh/ˈlaɪə/

A liar is a person who tells lies. Lie is the verb/noun (the untruth). Do not mix with lawyer or with lyre. Calling someone a liar in a written statement can be libel. Strong word — avoid in calm exam essays unless quoting.

Meaning

A person who tells lies.

Examples

• “Calling a witness a liar in the statement can be libel.”
• “He admitted he had been a liar about the hours, which is the person, not the lie.”

Good to know

a liar. Verb/noun: lie. Mix-up: lawyer. Legal risk: libel. Strong insult — quote, don’t sprinkle. Court / HR statements.

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