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

Michael has been unable to resist telling a little white lie over the years that he is related to Darren and his famous father, Sir Alex of Manchester United fame.

From BBC • Feb. 1, 2025

During an interview last Thursday with CNN's Christian Amanpour, the former president told a big fib, or what could more generously be described as a white lie.

From Salon • Jun. 29, 2023

So any little bad thing he ever done—a white lie here, a small mistake there—whirled through his mind as he twirled through the clouds.

From "The Seven Wonders of Sassafras Springs" by Betty G. Birney