kernels of truth

Small valid points

Kernels of truth are small but genuine elements of accuracy within something otherwise false, exaggerated, or fictional.

The phrase acknowledges that lies and myths often contain some factual basis: Every conspiracy theory has a kernel of truth.

The image is of a seed—something small that could grow into fuller understanding if separated from the surrounding chaff.

Related
  • findLocate through effort
  • basisUnderlying support or principle
  • factVerifiable piece of information
  • fact checkConfirm statement accuracy
  • coreCentral essential portion

reality · urban legend · urban myth · tall tale · essence · hidden meaning · nugget · veracity · hidden gem · folklore · seed · buried treasure · embellishment · old wives' tale · mythos · genuineness · propaganda · grain

Opposites
truthfulness/veracity

kernels of truthpack of lies

Multiple deliberate untruths together

baseless claims · whole cloth · disinformation · misinformation · tall tales

substance/foundation

kernels of truthbaseless claims

Assertions without factual support

castles in the air · hot air · idle speculation · conspiracy theories · old wives' tales

epistemic value

kernels of truthhogwash

Foolish or untrue talk

balderdash · poppycock · malarkey · garbage · bunk

Family

kernel, kernels, truth, truths, truthful, truthfully, truthfulness, untruthful, truest

Familiarity
Top 200,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Abstract · Everyday, not technical · Rated G