Under oath Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈəndɝ/ /ˈoʊθ

UN-der OHTH

UK

ˈʌndɐ/ /ˈəʊθ

UN-duh OHTH

Definition

If you are under oath, you have promised formally to tell the truth, especially in a court or legal setting. Lying under oath is a serious offense.

Usage & Nuances

Commonly used in legal and formal contexts. Often appears as 'testify under oath' or 'sworn under oath.' Highlights the seriousness and legal obligation to tell the truth; breaking it is called perjury.

• Spanish: bajo juramento
• Portuguese (BR): sob juramento
• Portuguese (PT): sob juramento
• Chinese (Simplified): 在宣誓下
• Chinese (Traditional): 在宣誓下
• Hindi: शपथ के तहत
• Arabic: تحت اليمين
• Bengali: শপথের অধীনে
• Russian: под присягой
• Japanese: 宣誓して - 宣誓のもとで
• Vietnamese: dưới lời tuyên thệ
• Korean: 선서 하에
• Turkish: yemin altında
• Urdu: حلف کے تحت
• Indonesian: di bawah sumpah

Example Sentences

He promised to tell the truth under oath.

basic

She testified under oath in court.

basic

You must answer these questions under oath.

basic

Even under oath, some people still try to hide the truth.

natural

He lied under oath and could face charges of perjury.

natural

Witnesses are always reminded they're under oath before they answer.

natural