As slick as they think they are, liars tend to be pretty easy to spot if you know what you’re looking for.
People who aren’t being honest often leave behind little clues – exaggerated stories, sudden changes in tone, or those too-good-to-be-true stories that stick out like a sore thumb. If you notice these things happening when you’re talking to someone, chances are, they’re spewing a whole load of porky pies.
1. They can’t seem to look you in the eye.
When someone’s spinning a story, it’s amazing how their gaze will suddenly drift anywhere but at you. From inspecting the ceiling to admiring their own shoes, avoiding eye contact is often a classic tell. It’s like they’re afraid you’ll see the truth written in their eyes. If their eyes start roaming, be on guard!
2. Their story keeps getting “better.”
Ever notice how some stories get more and more dramatic with each retelling? If their tale suddenly includes celebrity encounters, life-saving heroics, and one-in-a-million coincidences, they might be adding some “extras.” Sometimes a simple story isn’t enough for a good storyteller – but you can spot the over-the-top ones!
3. They add far too much detail.
When someone’s lying, they often throw in tons of tiny details to make it seem more convincing. You’ll get a blow-by-blow account of the waiter’s haircut, the exact temperature outside, and even the brand of shoes they were wearing. Over-detailing is often a cover for a lack of actual truth. Sometimes, less is more.
4. Their expressions don’t match their words.
If they’re telling you a sad story with a grin or claiming excitement with zero enthusiasm, take note. Mismatched facial expressions are a sign they might be putting on a show. It’s as if their face didn’t get the memo. Mixed signals are often worth a second look.
5. They’re defensive over minor questions.
Ask a harmless follow-up question, and suddenly, they’re acting like you’ve accused them of a felony. Overreacting to innocent questions is often a sign they’re hiding something. It’s like they’re rehearsing a defensive stance in case you get too close to the truth. If they’re touchy, tread carefully.
6. They keep “forgetting” the story they just told.
Nothing says, “I made this up” quite like not remembering your own story. If details keep shifting every time you ask, you might be dealing with some creative storytelling. It’s almost like they’re testing to see if you’re paying attention. Take note of those “selective memories.”
7. They oversell their honesty.
When someone has to keep telling you, “I swear I’m being honest,” it often raises more questions than it answers. It’s like a neon sign flashing “Trust Me!” that ironically makes you trust them less. Real honesty doesn’t need a commercial break. The more they say it, the less you believe it.
8. Their body language doesn’t match their words.
Arms crossed, fidgeting, and shifting around while claiming to be “completely open” sends mixed messages. Body language is a giveaway – if their words are confident, but their posture says, “escape plan,” take it with a grain of salt. Actions speak louder than words.
9. They repeat your questions before answering.
Repeating your question gives them a second to think up an answer, which often means they’re stalling for time. If someone constantly rephrases your questions back at you, they might be cooking up a story on the spot. When they repeat, stay curious – and maybe a little sceptical.
10. They dodge giving direct answers.
Instead of answering your question, they’ll go on a scenic route that takes you everywhere but where you wanted to go. If they’re dodging with long-winded explanations and roundabout responses, they’re probably hiding something. Sometimes, they’re hoping you’ll forget what you even asked.
11. They shift the blame or change the subject.
If they suddenly start pointing fingers or changing the topic when you press for details, it’s a classic distraction tactic. It’s as if any topic is preferable to the truth. When the blame-shifting starts, it’s often a sign they’d rather talk about anything else but the question at hand.
12. They laugh off serious questions.
Turning serious questions into a joke or acting like you’re being silly for asking is often a way to dodge a real answer. If every question is met with a chuckle or sarcasm, they might be hiding behind humour. A laugh can sometimes be a smokescreen for the truth.
13. They act overly sincere or “genuine.”
When they’re going above and beyond to convince you of their sincerity, it can feel like they’re in a play. The exaggerated hand-over-heart gestures and “I would never lie” statements can be a bit much. Real sincerity doesn’t need a performance. If it feels like an act, it probably is.
14. They constantly shift eye contact.
Some people overdo the “look me in the eyes” approach, holding eye contact just a bit too intensely, which can come off as forced. Other people avoid it entirely. Either extreme can be a sign they’re trying too hard or not trying at all. Natural eye contact flows – it doesn’t freeze or dodge.
15. They give you compliments to distract you.
Dropping compliments or flattery right after a questionable statement can be a distraction tactic. If they’re buttering you up to avoid real questions, it’s a classic “look over there!” approach. Genuine people don’t need to toss out compliments to cover the truth. Keep an ear out for those well-timed flattery bombs.
16. They use vague language or generalisations.
If they’re using lots of “maybe,” “kind of,” or “probably,” they might be giving themselves an out in case they get caught. Vague words and phrases make it easier to backtrack. Clear and specific answers are usually more reliable. When the language is fuzzy, the story probably is too.
