An old wives’ tale

usgb
noun

A traditional belief or story that is not based on reality or facts, often about health or behaviour.

They say eating carrots will improve your eyesight but it's just an old wives' tale.
Visual representation of "an old wives’ tale" - A traditional belief or story that is not based on reality or facts, often about health or behaviour.

Often appears as...

  • just an old wives' tale
  • believe in an old wives' tale

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "an old wives’ tale"
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Colloquial Usage

Used informally, great for casual conversations but not in formal writing.

Illustration for Colloquial Usage
My grandma warned me that sitting too close to the TV is bad for my eyes, but that's probably an old wives' tale.
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Non-scientific Claims

Refers to beliefs that are not backed by modern science, often passed down through generations.

Illustration for Non-scientific Claims
I heard that rubbing a wart with a potato will make it disappear, but it sounds like an old wives' tale to me.
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Skepticism Expressed

Express skepticism or doubt about the truth of something when using this phrase.

Illustration for Skepticism Expressed
Eat chicken soup to cure a cold? Sounds like an old wives' tale to me.
Visual representation of the word "An old wives’ tale"

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