ring true

ring true

if something someone has said or written rings true, it seems to be true. Something about the story didn't quite ring true. (often negative)

See also: ring, true

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ring true

to seem to be accurate or sincere. The book rang true because the author had actually experienced the ordeal of being marooned on an island. Cooper's reassuring words didn't ring true with everyone.

Usage notes: often used with not, as in the example, and often used in the forms the ring of truth or a ring of truth: Speaking as a parent of boys, I can tell you her comments have the ring of truth.

ring hollow

See also: ring, true