Is It a ‘Bald-Faced’ or ‘Bold-Faced’ Lie?

When someone tells a blatant, shameless lie, we sometimes call it out as being a “bald-faced lie.” But hang on: Should it be “bold-faced” instead? As it happens, both are acceptable in modern English, although linguistic purists might argue that “bald-faced” is more appropriate, simply because it’s closer to the expression’s etymological origin. 

The original expression was actually “barefaced lie.” The word “barefaced,” initially meaning “beardless” or “unmasked” — literally having the face uncovered — has been around since at least 1600. The word then evolved to mean, metaphorically, “open” or “unconcealed.” A barefaced lie, therefore, was one told without disguise or shame — as brazen as showing your naked face.

Early uses of “bald-faced” appear in the mid-18th century, with exactly the same meaning as “barefaced” — understandably, as they carry a similar usage. “Bald-faced” became common in the U.S. during the 1800s and onward. By the late 20th century, the alternative “bold-faced lie” popped up. While some dismiss it as a mistake, “bold-faced” has its own legitimate history. Since Shakespeare’s time (it appears in Henry VI, Part 1), “bold-faced” has meant “shameless” or “impudent” — as in someone with a confident face or look — which perfectly describes a person brazen enough to tell an obvious lie. (Remove the hyphen and “boldface” becomes a noun for text printed in a bold typeface.)

But Shakespeare’s usage might not tell the full story. Merriam-Webster suggests that the “bold” phrase may have gained popularity in the late-1900s partly due to confusion with boldface type in newspapers, where “boldface” literally referred to text printed in thick, attention-grabbing letters. The evidence is inconclusive, but the similarities do make a connection seem probable. 

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Today, editors prefer “bald-faced lie,” but “bold-faced lie” is widely used and understood. “Barefaced lie” is not as common, although you may hear it more often in Britain. So, whether you use “bald,” “bold,” or “bare,” you’re technically correct. All three convey the same meaning: a shameless, obvious falsehood. But if you want to play it safe, stick with “bald-faced.”