partialtruth

Partial truth, also known as half-truth or selective truth, refers to a statement or piece of information that is not entirely false but is misleading because it omits significant details or contexts. It presents a portion of the truth while intentionally or unintentionally obscuring the full picture. This can be achieved by highlighting certain facts while downplaying or ignoring others, or by presenting information in a way that implies a conclusion that is not fully supported by the evidence provided. The effect of a partial truth is to create a false impression or lead to a misunderstanding, even though the stated information itself may be factually correct in isolation. This technique can be used in various contexts, including advertising, political discourse, and personal communication, often to manipulate perception or achieve a desired outcome without outright lying. Recognizing partial truths requires critical thinking and an awareness of what information might be missing or misrepresented. It is distinct from a complete lie, which is a statement known to be false, but can be equally, if not more, deceptive.