prevaricate

[pri-var-i-keyt]

prevaricate Definition

to avoid telling the truth or being clear about something, especially by not directly answering questions.

Using prevaricate: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "prevaricate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He prevaricated when asked about his involvement in the scandal.

  • Example

    The politician prevaricated on the issue during the debate.

  • Example

    She accused him of prevaricating and not giving her a straight answer.

  • Example

    The witness was caught prevaricating under cross-examination.

prevaricate Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for prevaricate

Antonyms for prevaricate

  • be honest
  • speak clearly

Phrases with prevaricate

  • to avoid telling the truth or being clear about something

    Example

    He prevaricated with the truth when asked about his whereabouts that night.

  • to avoid getting to the point or addressing the main issue

    Example

    Stop prevaricating around the bush and tell me what you really think.

  • to use prevarication as a means of avoiding responsibility or accountability for something

    Example

    He tried to prevaricate his way out of the situation, but eventually had to admit his mistake.

Origins of prevaricate

from Latin 'praevaricatus', meaning 'walked crookedly'

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Summary: prevaricate in Brief

'Prevaricate' [pri-var-i-keyt] means to avoid telling the truth or being clear about something, especially by not directly answering questions. It is often used to describe politicians or witnesses who are evasive or misleading. Phrases like 'prevaricate with the truth' and 'prevaricate around the bush' highlight the act of avoiding the main issue. Synonyms include 'equivocate' and 'dodge,' while informal alternatives include 'beat around the bush' and 'skirt the issue.'