Economical with the truth
Encyclopedia
Economical with the truth is popularly used as a euphemism
for deceitful, whether by volunteering false information (i.e., lying
) or by deliberately holding back relevant facts. More literally, it describes a careful use of facts so as not to reveal too much information.
A similar expression appeared in Mr. Punch's History of the Great War, published in July 1919:
The modern phrase entered popular usage after it was used by the British then-Cabinet Secretary
Robert Armstrong
during the Spycatcher
trial in 1986. It derives from Edmund Burke
:
Euphemism
A euphemism is the substitution of a mild, inoffensive, relatively uncontroversial phrase for another more frank expression that might offend or otherwise suggest something unpleasant to the audience...
for deceitful, whether by volunteering false information (i.e., lying
Lie
For other uses, see Lie A lie is a type of deception in the form of an untruthful statement, especially with the intention to deceive others....
) or by deliberately holding back relevant facts. More literally, it describes a careful use of facts so as not to reveal too much information.
A similar expression appeared in Mr. Punch's History of the Great War, published in July 1919:
The modern phrase entered popular usage after it was used by the British then-Cabinet Secretary
Cabinet Secretary
A Cabinet Secretary is almost always a senior official who provides services and advice to a Cabinet of Ministers. In many countries, the position can have considerably wider functions and powers, including general responsibility for the entire civil service...
Robert Armstrong
Robert Armstrong, Baron Armstrong of Ilminster
Robert Temple Armstrong, Baron Armstrong of Ilminster GCB, CVO , son of the musician Sir Thomas Armstrong, is a British life peer and former civil servant.-Life:...
during the Spycatcher
Spycatcher
Spycatcher: The Candid Autobiography of a Senior Intelligence Officer , is a book written by Peter Wright, former MI5 officer and Assistant Director, and co-author Paul Greengrass. It was published first in Australia...
trial in 1986. It derives from Edmund Burke
Edmund Burke
Edmund Burke PC was an Irish statesman, author, orator, political theorist and philosopher who, after moving to England, served for many years in the House of Commons of Great Britain as a member of the Whig party....
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