Bald Faced Lie vs. Bold Faced Lie – Which is Correct?
The terms bald faced lie and bold faced lie often confuse individuals regarding their proper usage. Both expressions are commonly used to describe a blatant or obvious falsehood. However, understanding their correct forms and contexts can enhance both spoken and written communication.
bald faced lie or bold faced lie – Which is Correct?
Both bald faced lie and bold faced lie are used in American English, but bold faced lie is the more widely accepted form in contemporary usage. “Bald faced” is considered a variant that has become less popular over time. The phrase signifies a lie that is so obvious that it requires no camouflage or finesse.
| Term | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| bald faced lie | Used informally, but less popular than bold faced. | The accusation was proven to be a bald faced lie. |
| bold faced lie | The preferred form, indicating an obvious falsehood. | He made a bold faced lie during the debate. |
How to Use bold faced lie
bold faced lie is utilized when referring to an obvious untruth that is delivered with confidence or without any attempt at deception. It is important to use this phrase in appropriate contexts, especially when critiquing someone’s honesty.
Example 1: The witness’s testimony was a bold faced lie, easily disproven.
Example 2: Claiming that he was never at the scene was a bold faced lie.
Example 3: Everyone knew it was a bold faced lie, yet he still stood by it.
What are the different forms of bold faced lie?
The term itself is a noun phrase and doesn’t have various tenses. However, variations like to bold-faced (verb form implying the act of stating something in bold-faced terms) could be considered in certain contexts.
Etymology of the word bold faced
The term “bold faced” combines “bold,” meaning daring or confident, with “faced,” indicating a manner of presenting or confronting. The use of “bald faced” stems from a similar intent to convey something stark or lacking in disguise. Over the years, “bold faced” has become the preferred expression.
How to Use bald faced lie
While bald faced lie can still be understood, it is less frequently used in formal writing or speech. It follows the same contextual usage as “bold faced lie” but may come across as outdated.
Example 1: His explanation of the events was a bald faced lie.
Example 2: It is surprising how he continues to promote that bald faced lie.
Example 3: Even the children saw through his bald faced lie.
What are the different forms of bald faced?
Similar to “bold faced,” “bald faced” serves as an adjective in this context. It does not have specific tense forms but is used to describe the quality of the lie being referenced.
Etymology of the word bald faced
The term “bald faced” derives from the word “bald,” meaning bare or lacking, combined with “faced,” which refers to a person’s demeanor. It suggests a lack of subtlety or the absence of a cover-up when presenting falsehoods.
Practice Exercises
- The politician told a ___ lie during the press conference.
- It was clear to everyone that her story was a ___ lie.
- He continued to insist his version was true, despite it being a ___ lie.
- They were caught in a ___ lie about their whereabouts.
- Admitting to the ___ lie required a level of self-awareness.
Answer Key
- bold faced
- bald faced
- bold faced
- bald faced
- bold faced
bald faced lie Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| obvious lie | A statement known to be false without disguise. |
| blatant falsehood | An outspoken or glaring untruth. |
bold faced lie Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| brazen lie | A bold or shameless falsehood. |
| flagrant lie | A lie that is glaringly wrong or defiant. |
Conclusion
Understanding the proper use of bald faced lie and bold faced lie enhances communication. While both terms convey a similar concept, opting for “bold faced lie” is recommended for clearer and more contemporary expression.
