WordGarden.iotrue
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /trˈuː/
US
- /ˈtru/
Meanings
Adjective
in accordance with fact or reality; not false
genuine, real, or sincerely felt rather than fake or pretended
loyal, steadfast, or faithful in support or affection
More meaningsFewer meanings
accurately matching an original, standard, line, or intended form
Noun
the Boolean value representing truth in logic or programming
Beyond the definition
"True" describes something that aligns with reality—it is what it appears to be. You might say a friend is "true," meaning they are loyal and honest. It also means correct, as in a "true answer" on a test. But "true" isn't just about facts; it can describe feelings, too! A "true love" is one that feels deeply genuine and lasting. Think of the phrase "stay true to yourself"—it's an encouragement to be authentic and honest about who you are.
The word "true" holds a surprising amount of weight, stretching beyond simple factuality into realms of authenticity and feeling. At its core, "true" signifies something that is in accordance with reality or fact. If a story accurately reflects events, it's considered true. A mathematical equation is true if the two sides balance perfectly. "Is this statement true?" asks for verification against what is.
However, "true" isn't limited to objective truths. It also describes genuineness and sincerity. We speak of a "true friend," meaning someone loyal, honest, and reliable—a person who embodies authentic connection. A "true artist" creates from the heart, expressing genuine emotion and vision.
"True" can even describe intensity or completeness. "True colors" refer to someone's real personality revealed, often under pressure. A "true story," while factually accurate, might also be emotionally resonant and deeply affecting. The phrase "it is true that..." signals a firm belief or acceptance of something.
Historically, "true" comes from Old English roots meaning "faithful" and "steadfast." This sense of unwavering loyalty still echoes in its modern usage. So, whether you're verifying information, describing a cherished relationship, or encouraging someone to be themselves, "true" speaks to the heart of what is real, genuine, and lasting.
Examples
- 1
Checking facts
Is it true that the last train leaves at midnight?
- 2
True story
The movie is based on a true story.
- 3
Agreement
"That's true, but we still need a backup plan."
- PhraseThat's true
I agree that what you said is correct
- 4
Loyal friendship
She's been a true friend through some very hard times.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Promise keeping
He was true to his word and paid us back on Friday.
- Phrasetrue to your word
do what you said you would do
- 6
Original style
The new design stays true to the style of the original building.
- Patternstay true to + original/source
keep the same important qualities
- 7
Relationship fidelity
He was never true to his wife.
- Patterntrue to + partner
faithful in a relationship
- 8
Hopes and wishes
After years of training, her dream of winning finally came true.
- Phrasecome true
happen in real life, for a hope or wish
- 9
Rules and cases
The same rule holds true for part-time workers.
- Patternhold true for + case/group
also be correct in that case
See also
Forms and spellings
6 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- trueverbadjectivenoun
Forms
- truestsuperlativeadjectiveverbnoun
- truing-ing formverbadjectivenoun
- truedpast tenseverbadjectivenoun
- truesverbadjectivenoun
- trueercomparativeadjectiveverbnoun