The phrase "gives the lie to" means to expose the falsehood of something. It is pronounced /ɡɪvz ðə laɪ tuː/ and spelled phonetically as "gives-the-lie-to". The initial "g" sound is pronounced as in "goat", the "i" sound as in "pig", the "v" sound as in "very", the "s" sound as in "snake", the "th" sound as in "the", the "a" sound as in "father", and the final "o" sound as in "toe".
"Gives the lie to" is an idiomatic expression that means to discredit or refute something that was previously claimed or believed to be true, proving it false or inaccurate. When an assertion, statement, or notion "gives the lie to" something, it exposes it as a falsehood or contradiction.
This phrase is often used when evidence or facts contradict what has been previously stated or assumed. It suggests a strong undermining of credibility or the revealing of a hidden truth. By using this expression, one implies that the subject or evidence blatantly discredits or disproves an idea, claim, or statement.
For example, if someone claims to have never taken money from the company's funds, but an investigation uncovers a trail of bank transfers to their personal account, it can be said that the evidence "gives the lie to" their claim of innocence. It emphasizes the idea that the evidence is conclusive and reveals the truth in contrast to the initial statement.
"Gives the lie to" illustrates a forceful contradiction or exposure of deception through factual evidence or proof. It carries a connotation of an unequivocal refutation, challenging the veracity of a statement or belief by providing evidence that undermines its credibility or accuracy.