Live a lie
verb phrase
To live in a way that is not true to one's real self or beliefs, often pretending to be happy when not.
She had been living a lie for years, smiling and pretending to be happy even though she was really suffering.
Often appears as...
- pretend to live a lie
- continue to live a lie
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To live in a way that is not true to one's real self or beliefs, often pretending to be happy when not.
She had been living a lie for years, smiling and pretending to be happy even though she was really suffering.
Often appears as...
- pretend to live a lie
- continue to live a lie
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Weight
This phrase often carries a heavy emotional burden, implying distress or inner conflict.
Hiding his true identity, he felt he was living a lie.
Pro Tip 2/3Cultural Usage
Common in contexts where social norms pressure individuals to behave against their true selves.
Despite her artistic passion, cultural expectations forced her to live a lie as a lawyer.
Pro Tip 3/3Metaphorical Use
Used figuratively to describe a state of being not physically living falsely.
He's not literally lying to everyone; he's living a lie by not following his dreams.
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