ringing true
Feeling honest, believable
Ringing true describes something that sounds authentic, believable, or consistent with what one knows to be real.
The phrase comes from the practice of striking metal to test its quality—pure bells produce a clear, resonant tone.
His excuse didn't ring true.
Something about her story rang true.
- believableAble to convince
- credibleWorthy of acceptance
- trustworthyWorthy of confidence
- checks outConfirms or departs
- genuinenessQuality of being real
reliable · resonance · strikes a chord · hits home · clarity · recognition · honesty · alignment · gut feeling · gut instinct · harmony · confirmation · coherence · dependable · veracity · sincerity · integrity · evidence