perjure - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
perjure Word Meanings
- to lie under oath
- to willfully give false testimony
- to break an oath
perjure Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
perjure Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpɜːdʒə/
US
/ˈpɜrdʒər/
perjure Word Etymology
(a) per- + jurare (to swear) - the 'per-' prefix indicates thoroughness or intensity. (b) Originating from Latin 'perjurare', passing through Old French before entering English in the 14th century. (c) Imagine a courtroom where someone raises their hand to swear that they will tell the truth, only to deceitfully twist their words – a striking image of betrayal.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
To perjure is to lie under oath, or to willfully provide false testimony after promising to tell the truth. In legal contexts, it is a serious crime that can undermine a trial and lead to penalties such as fines, imprisonment, or overturned verdicts. The action is distinct from simply lying in everyday life; it requires a formal oath in a courtroom or sworn testimony. Learners should note that the related noun is perjury, and that the verb often appears with phrases like 'perjure oneself' or 'to commit perjury under oath.' Visualize a juror raising a hand and then twisting words; this image helps remember betrayal of trust.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: 1) perjure is a formal verb; 2) use with under oath or in sworn testimony; 3) perjury is the noun; 4) related phrase perjure oneself; 5) it implies intent to deceive; 6) differentiate from ordinary lying (lie) in casual settings.
Common Misconceptions
- It's just a fancy synonym for lie, but only when spoken in court under oath.
- Perjury and lying in daily life are the same thing.
- Anyone who lies while testifying is guilty of perjury.
- Perjury is only about written statements, not spoken testimony.
- The noun perjury can be used interchangeably with lie.
Thinking Differences
Perjure marks a legal act; learners think of it as 'just lie' but it requires an oath and formal testimony. English tends to prefer the noun perjury for the crime, and the verb perjure with reflexive pronouns; common mistakes include using lie instead of perjure in courtroom contexts.
Learning Tips
- Learn the key collocations: perjure oneself, commit perjury under oath.
- Always pair with under oath to show the legal context.
- Remember the noun perjury and the verb perjure aren't interchangeable.
- Practice past tense: perjured; recognize related terms like witness and oath.
- Contrast with lie in everyday talk to avoid overgeneralization.
- Visualize a courtroom scene to remember the concept.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'perjure' mean?
A.To admit guilt
B.To tell the truth in court
C.To testify falsely under oath
D.To plead innocent
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct use of the word 'perjure' in a sentence.
A.The lawyer advised him to perjure during the trial.
B.She decided to perjure herself when she realized it would help her friend.
C.He felt it was important to perjure the facts during his testimony.
D.She promised not to perjure when she took the oath.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'perjure'?
A.Lie
B.Truth
C.Confess
D.Sincere
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'perjure'?
A.Fabricate
B.Deceive
C.Testify truthfully
D.Conceal
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might perjure themselves?
A.A witness decided to tell the whole truth during the trial.
B.An individual confessed to their wrongdoing in front of a judge.
C.During a court case, someone falsely claimed they had not seen the incident.
D.Lawyers are required to present honest evidence.
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