truism - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
truism Word Meanings
- a statement that is obviously true
- a self-evident truth
- a platitude or common belief
truism Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
truism Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtruːɪz(ə)m/
US
/ˈtruːɪzəm/
truism Word Etymology
truism = true + ism; Origin: Latin ‘verus’ → Old French ‘verité’ → English. Imagine a wise sage stating a 'truth' that everyone knows, like the sky is blue, highlighting the obviousness of such statements.
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
A truism is a statement that is obviously true, often accepted as self-evident without argument. People use the term both humorously and critically, pointing out when someone repeats a well-known fact as if it were insight. In smart writing, a truism can help connect a familiar idea to a larger argument, but overusing it can make arguments feel lazy or condescending. Learners should distinguish between a useful, shared observation and a cliché that adds little to discussion. Use truism to acknowledge common ground, but follow with specific reasoning or evidence to advance the point.
Usage Reminders
- Use it to flag an obvious point
- Pair with evidence or nuance
- Not a universal fact or a generic label
- Be mindful of tone and audience
- Differentiate from a cliché or platitude
Common Misconceptions
- A truism is always insulting or dismissive; it isn’t inherently negative.
- It means a fact that requires no evidence, which is not always true in argument.
- A truism and a platitude are the same thing in all contexts.
- Using a truism guarantees a strong argument.
- Truism exclusively refers to common sense in every culture.
Thinking Differences
English speakers often treat truism as a neutral label for an obvious point, but learners may read it as a claim about truth itself. The nuance often hinges on tone and context.
Learning Tips
- Differentiate truism from a simple fact by checking if it adds insight beyond the obvious.
- Notice tone: neutral use vs ironic or condescending use.
- Pair a truism with specific evidence or data.
- Learn common collocations: 'it's a truism that', 'truism of the day'.
- Compare with platitude and cliché to choose the right level of critique.
- Practice rephrasing: turn a truism into a question or a problem to solve.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'truism'?
A.A statement that is false
B.A fictional story
C.A self-evident truth
D.A scientific theory
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'truism' used correctly?
A.They debated the authenticity of the truism.
B.He debunked a truism with facts.
C.The truism of his argument lacked evidence.
D.She shared a truism that no one had heard before.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'truism'?
A.Deception
B.Absurdity
C.Paradox
D.Cliche
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'truism'?
A.Misconception
B.Fallacy
C.Quandary
D.Dilemma
Step 5: Mastery
How would you apply the concept of 'truism' in a real-life situation?
A.By stating a common-sense fact
B.By creating a fictional scenario
C.By engaging in philosophical debates
D.By conducting scientific experiments
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