What does “Whole cloth” mean?
"Whole cloth" means that something is completely made up or fabricated.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The story he told was whole cloth, there was no truth to it at all.
Example
The rumors about her are whole cloth, someone just made them up.
Example
The evidence against him was whole cloth, it was all planted by someone else
Is “Whole cloth” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Whole cloth” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Whole cloth” effectively in context?
You can use "Whole Cloth" to describe something that is completely made up or fabricated, with no basis in truth. It emphasizes the idea that the information or story is entirely invented. For example, if someone tells you a wild and unbelievable story, you might say, 'That's "whole cloth", there's no truth to it at all.'
- 1Gossip
The rumors about her are whole cloth, someone just made them up.
- 2False Accusations
The evidence against him was whole cloth, it was all planted by someone else.
- 3Tall Tales
The story he told was whole cloth, there was no truth to it at all.
Similar phrases to “Whole cloth”:
To invent or create something, especially a story or information, that is not true
Example
He fabricated the evidence to make it look like she was guilty.
Cook up
To invent or concoct something, especially a story or excuse
Example
He cooked up an elaborate story to explain his absence.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Whole cloth” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Whole Cloth" is unknown.
Is “Whole cloth” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Whole Cloth" is not very common in everyday conversation. It is more likely to be used in formal or literary contexts when discussing the fabrication or invention of stories or information.
What tone does “Whole cloth” have?
"Whole Cloth" conveys a tone of disbelief or skepticism. It is often used to express doubt or to question the veracity of something that has been presented as true.
Can “Whole cloth” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Whole Cloth" is a formal expression. It is more commonly used in written language, such as in books, articles, or formal speeches, rather than in casual conversations.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The story he told was "whole cloth", there was no truth to it at all.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'That's "whole cloth"!' to express disbelief.
