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economical

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be economical with the truth

To be deceitful; to lie. I wouldn't trust him—everyone says he's economical with the truth. When I walked into a house full of teenagers, I knew that my kids had been economical with the truth when they said they'd only invite a few friends over.

See also: economical, truth

economical with the truth

Euph. untruthful. The mayor was known to be economical with the truth. I discovered that my boss had been economical with the truth when she said that the company was making money.

See also: economical, truth

be economical with the truth

  (humorous)

to not be completely honest about something He was economical with the truth - he gave her a censored account of what was discussed.

See also: economical, truth