Word: Lie Detector
Definition: A lie detector is a device, also known as a polygraph, that measures physical changes in a person’s body, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. These changes can sometimes indicate whether someone is telling the truth or lying.
Usage Instructions: - The term "lie detector" is a noun and is used to refer to the machine or the process of testing someone to see if they are lying. - It is often used in contexts like law enforcement, psychology, or security.
Example Sentence: - "The police used a lie detector to see if the suspect was telling the truth about what happened."
Advanced Usage: - In a more technical context, you might hear the term "polygraph examination" when referring to the process of using a lie detector test. - Some people discuss the reliability of lie detectors, as they are not always accurate in determining if someone is lying.
Word Variants: - Polygraph (noun): This is another name for a lie detector. - Lie Detection (noun): The process of determining if someone is lying.
Different Meanings: - In a more informal sense, "lie detector" can refer to a person who is very good at noticing when someone is not being truthful, even without a machine.
Synonyms: - Polygraph - Truth detector (though this is less commonly used)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "lie detector," but you might hear phrases like: - "Read between the lines," which means to look for the deeper meaning or truth in what someone is saying. - "Call someone out," which means to confront someone about their dishonesty.
Summary: A lie detector is a machine used to measure physical responses that might indicate whether someone is lying. It is mostly used in legal and psychological contexts but can also refer to someone skilled at detecting lies without a machine.