the greater the truth, the greater the libel - Definition & Meaning

used to suggest that the more damaging or scandalous the truth is, the more likely it is to result in a lawsuit or other legal action for defamationused to suggest that the more damaging or scandalous the truth is, the more likely it is to result in a lawsuit or other legal action for defamation

The origin of the proverb "the greater the truth, the greater the libel" is often attributed to English legal contexts, particularly from the 18th century. It highlights the paradox that even truthful statements, when they expose wrongdoing or harm someone’s reputation, can lead to accusations of slander. The proverb serves as a reminder that truth, while important, can still have legal and social repercussions if it is damaging to others.The origin of the proverb "the greater the truth, the greater the libel" is often attributed to English legal contexts, particularly from the 18th century. It highlights the paradox that even truthful statements, when they expose wrongdoing or harm someone’s reputation, can lead to accusations of slander. The proverb serves as a reminder that truth, while important, can still have legal and social repercussions if it is damaging to others.

Examples