proverb · Words worth keeping
The greater truth, the greater libel.
The greater truth, the greater libel.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
The saying makes a greater truth a greater libel. Its provocative contrast suggests that an accurate accusation may be felt as especially damaging by its subject.
Example
A reader distinguishes the sting of an accurate criticism from a conclusion about its legal status.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Truth and libel are put together in a way that invites scrutiny. This editorial reading concerns reputational impact, not the legal meaning of libel or whether a claim is actionable. A careful application distinguishes evidence, harm and the rules governing a particular setting. The phrase supplies none of those rules and should not decide what someone may lawfully publish.
When to use it
Use it to examine a provocative contrast between accuracy and reputational harm.
Keep in mind
It is not legal advice or a statement of current defamation law.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English