false witness (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/ˈfɔːls ˈwɪtnəs/

Meaning and Usage

"False witness" refers to a person who gives testimony in a legal setting that is not true or who intentionally misleads others through their statements. It can also pertain to the act of bearing false witness, often used in a religious or moral context, implying a serious ethical violation.

The phrase is more commonly used in written contexts, particularly in legal, religious, or academic discussions. However, it can occasionally appear in oral discourse, especially when discussing legal matters.

Example Sentences

1. The jury was instructed to disregard the testimony of the false witness.

2. Translation: La jurado fue instruido para ignorar el testimonio del falso testigo.

3. In court, he accused her of being a false witness who distorted the facts.

4. Translation: En la corte, la acusó de ser un falso testigo que distorsionó los hechos.

5. Bearing false witness not only harms the innocent but also corrupts the justice system.

6. Translation: Dar falso testimonio no solo perjudica a los inocentes, sino que también corrompe el sistema de justicia.

Idiomatic Expressions

"False witness" is often embedded in various idioms and moral discussions related to integrity and honesty. Some common idiomatic expressions involving the concept include:

1. "Bearing false witness against your neighbor."
2. This refers to the act of making false accusations against someone, typically in a moral or religious context.

3. Translation: Dar falso testimonio contra tu prójimo.

4. "A false witness is worse than a thief."

5. This suggests that lying or bearing false witness is a more serious moral crime than stealing.

6. Translation: Un falso testigo es peor que un ladrón.

7. "To be a false witness to the truth."

8. This indicates misrepresenting or misinterpreting the truth, often used in philosophical discussions.

9. Translation: Ser un falso testigo de la verdad.

10. "False witnesses ruin reputations."

11. This highlights the destructive impact of deceitful testimony on an individual’s reputation.
12. Translation: Los falsos testigos arruinan reputaciones.

Etymology

The term "false witness" combines "false," originating from the Old English "fals," meaning deceptive or incorrect, and "witness," from the Old English "witnes," which stems from Proto-Germanic "witniz," meaning knowledge or testimony. Thus, "false witness" literally translates to someone who gives untrue testimony or evidence.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Perjurer - Fabricator - Liar - Deceiver

Antonyms: - Truth-teller - Witness - Informant - Advocate

In summary, "false witness" carries significant moral and legal implications, emphasizing the importance of honesty in testimony and discussion. It serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of deceit in society.