French Conversation · Level 53
75 words
French word
mensonge
Pronunciation
IPA/mɑ̃sɔ̃ʒ/
Meaning
- masculine nounlie
Example
Ce mensonge va causer des problèmes.
This lie will cause problems.
More examples
Elle a dit un mensonge pour éviter de blesser.
She told a falsehood to avoid causing harm.
Core concept
A verbal cover that hides what is true and directs another person toward a false belief.
Common phrases
dire un mensonge
tell a falsehood
un gros mensonge
a huge lie
un mensonge blanc
a white lie
Similar words
erreur: An error in facts or judgment made without intent to deceive.
tromperie: A deceptive act or device designed to lead someone astray.
Definition in French
Affirmation contraire à la vérité, énoncée volontairement pour tromper ou pour cacher la réalité.
Word origin
French mensonge comes through Old French from the verb mentir, which derives from the Latin verb mentiri.
Usage tips
- Mensonge implies deliberate deception, whereas erreur can describe a mistake made without an intention to deceive.