truthful
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /trˈuːθfəl/
US
- /ˈtruθfəl/
Description
- Honest
- sincere
- telling the truth
To be truthful means to tell the truth and not mislead people. It is about being honest in what you say and real in the way you act, so others can trust you. A truthful person is someone you can rely on to give a clear and accurate account of what happened, even when the truth is hard to say. Think of a witness in court: the person must give a truthful statement so that justice can be done. Sometimes, it is not only what you say but also how you say it, because a sincere tone often goes along with honest words.
Truthful describes a person, statement, or account that is honest and accurate, without lies or false details. It is more than simply not lying. It also suggests sincerity and a real effort to show things as they truly are. A truthful account of an event does not add exaggeration or leave out important facts on purpose. It tells what happened in a clear and direct way.
The idea also reaches beyond words. People often use the word for actions, behavior, and even reports or stories. If someone promises to help you move and then really shows up to help, their actions match their words. In the same way, a news report should be truthful, meaning that it gives the facts fairly and does not twist them.
In legal settings, being truthful is extremely important. Lying under oath is a serious offense. But the word matters just as much in everyday life. A truthful friend gives honest feedback, even when it may be hard to hear. A truthful leader earns confidence and trust because people believe the person is not trying to deceive them.
Sometimes the idea can become more complex, because people may disagree about facts or mix facts with personal beliefs. Even so, the core meaning stays simple: being truthful means trying to be honest, accurate, and fair in what you say and do. It is an important part of strong relationships, responsible behavior, and trust in society.
Examples
- 1
Direct request
Please be truthful about what happened.
- 2
Medical honesty
He wasn't entirely truthful with his doctor about how often he drank.
- 3
Personal history
The memoir offers a truthful account of her early years.
- 4
Tactful honesty
You can be truthful without being rude.
- 5
Honest admission
To be truthful, I was hoping they would cancel the plan.
Phrase
to be truthful
honestly
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- truthfuladjective