tell a lie
/tel ə laɪ/
Meaning
This expression means to deliberately say something that is not true in order to deceive someone. While 'lie' can be used as a verb ('to lie'), native speakers very frequently use the collocations 'tell a lie' (singular) or 'tell lies' (plural/general habit).
Examples
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It is never a good idea to tell a lie to your best friend.
It is never a good idea to tell a lie to your best friend.
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She knew he was telling a lie because he couldn't look her in the eye.
She knew he was telling a lie because he couldn't look her in the eye.
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I had to tell a white lie so I wouldn't hurt his feelings.
I had to tell a white lie so I wouldn't hurt his feelings.
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Children often tell lies when they are afraid of getting into trouble.
Children often tell lies when they are afraid of getting into trouble.
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He promised he would never tell a lie again.
He promised he would never tell a lie again.
Common Mistakes
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✗ He said a lie to me.
✓ He told a lie to me. / He told me a lie.
We always use the verb 'tell' with 'lie.' We never use 'say' or 'speak' when referring to lies.
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✗ It is bad to tell the lie.
✓ It is bad to tell a lie. / It is bad to tell lies.
Use 'a lie' or 'lies' for general statements. 'The lie' is only used when referring to a specific, previously mentioned lie.
Related Expressions
Practice
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I can always tell when my brother is trying to ___.
💡 Say something that isn't true.
Show answer
tell a lie
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Why did you ___ about where you were last night?
💡 Deceive someone by not speaking the truth.
Show answer
tell a lie