Netikras

Netikras is a Lithuanian adjective meaning false, fake, or counterfeit; it is used to describe statements, documents, products, or identities that are not genuine. In English, it is commonly translated as fake or bogus. The term can modify nouns such as netikras dokumentas (fake document) or netikra žinia (false news).

Etymology: Netikras is formed from the negation prefix ne- and tikras, meaning true. Literally, it means “not true.” It is a standard element of contemporary Lithuanian and is used across various registers, from everyday speech to media discourse.

Usage: The word is frequently employed to label misinformation, fraud, or counterfeit goods. Related terms include melas (lie), apgaulė (deception), and netikrumas (uncertainty). Common compound forms include netikras profilis (fake profile) and netikras atsakymas (bogus answer). Examples: "Tai netikras dokumentas." ("This is a fake document.") and "Internete plinta netikros žinios." ("Fake news spreads on the internet.")

Context and nuance: While relatively neutral in basic use, the evaluative tone of netikras depends on context and speaker intent. It is often part of discussions about consumer protection, media literacy, and efforts to combat misinformation.

See also: Fake news, misinformation, deception, counterfeit goods, Lithuanian vocabulary for truth and falsehood.