perjury - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
perjury Word Meanings
- the act of lying under oath
- deliberate falsehood in a legal setting
- the offense of making false statements after swearing to tell the truth
perjury Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
perjury Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpɜː.dʒə.ri/
US
/ˈpɜr.dʒər.i/
perjury Word Etymology
perjury = per- (through) + jur (law) + -y (noun suffix). Origin: Latin perjurium → Old French perjure → English. Picture a courtroom where someone, swearing on a Bible, raises their hand but betrays the truth—a dramatic scene 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
Perjury is the act of lying under oath or making deliberate false statements after promising to tell the truth. In many legal systems, perjury is a serious crime because it undermines the integrity of official proceedings and can affect the outcomes of trials, investigations, and administrative actions. The term covers sworn testimony, witness statements, and affidavits. People are expected to tell the truth when under oath, and knowingly giving false information can lead to penalties, including fines, probation, or imprisonment. Distinguishing perjury from mistaken statements is important: perjury requires intent to deceive rather than a simple error.
Usage Reminders
- Perjury requires intent to deceive under oath.
- A simple mistake or memory lapse is not perjury.
- It can involve spoken testimony or written declarations sworn to be true.
- Penalties vary by jurisdiction and may include fines or imprisonment.
- Recanting a false statement does not automatically erase charges.
Common Misconceptions
- Perjury is just lying in court, no matter the context.
- Only serious trials ever involve perjury.
- A memory slip or honest mistake is always perjury.
- Recanting a false statement afterward automatically clears the charge.
- Perjury applies only to spoken testimony, not to written statements.
Thinking Differences
In English, perjury is framed as an official, intentional lie under oath that can derail legal proceedings. Learners often think any lie under oath is perjury, but the key is intent to deceive and the sworn nature of the statement.
Learning Tips
- Learn the exact requirement: lying under oath with intent.
- Differentiate perjury from honest mistakes or memory lapses.
- Note that both oral testimony and written sworn statements can be charged.
- Familiarize yourself with common legal terms: oath, sworn, testify.
- Practice recognizing context: courtroom vs. civil filings.
- Review real-world examples to see how intent is evaluated.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'perjury'?
A.Innocent
B.Deceit
C.Truth
D.Conspiracy
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'perjury' correctly?
A.The perjury tasted delicious on the burger.
B.The witness committed perjury in court.
C.She used perjury to fix her car.
D.He bought perjury at the store.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'perjury'?
A.Falsification
B.Honesty
C.Integrity
D.Sincerity
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'perjury'?
A.Fabrication
B.Truthfulness
C.Deception
D.Forgery
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario involving lying under oath?
A.A doctor saving a patient's life.
B.A police officer giving false testimony in court.
C.A teacher grading exams.
D.A chef cooking a meal.
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