white lie

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Not even a white lie to avoid upsetting someone?

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 18, 2026

In her short fur coat and bright pink lips, she said she is well aware of "everything that's happening in the world, and where black and white lie."

From Barron's • Feb. 18, 2026

He's previously claimed the track was inspired by a sunset in Malibu, but it turns out that that's a little white lie.

From BBC • Jan. 6, 2025

Those checks were rudimentary: With a click and a white lie, anyone could pass.

From New York Times • Jul. 3, 2023

“A white lie, but yes. Sorry,” she said, trying to smile, but when I didn’t smile back, she turned around in her seat and faced forward.

From "Wonder" by R. J. Palacio