answer unjustly

[/ˈænsər ˌʌnˈdʒʌstli/]
verb phrase
responder injustamente
1. to provide a response or reply that is unfair, dishonest, or contrary to what is right or truthful
The defendant chose to answer unjustly when confronted with evidence of his wrongdoing.
O réu escolheu responder injustamente quando confrontado com provas de sua culpa.
2. to respond in a manner that misrepresents facts or truth
She felt compelled to answer unjustly to protect her friend, despite knowing the truth.
Ela se sentiu compelida a responder injustamente para proteger seu amigo, apesar de saber a verdade.
This phrase is particularly relevant in legal and formal contexts in both Brazilian and American English, often used when discussing testimony, depositions, or sworn statements. In Brazil, honesty in legal proceedings is emphasized through the concept of 'responder com verdade' (answering with truth), making the opposite action—answering unjustly—a serious matter.
NYC Slang
give a bogus answer; cap
Synonyms / Sinônimos
answer dishonestlyrespond unfairlyreply falselyanswer deceitfullyrespond untruthfully
Antonyms / Antônimos
answer justlyrespond fairlyanswer truthfullyreply honestlyrespond equitably

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
responder injustamente
standard usage in formal and informal contexts
São Paulo
responder de forma injusta
common alternative phrasing
Rio de Janeiro
responder torto
colloquial expression meaning to answer dishonestly
Portugal
responder injustamente
formal legal terminology

Related Words

perjuremisrepresentfalsifydeceivedistorttestimony

Related Idioms & Phrases

bend the truth
dodge the question
give a crooked answer
speak with forked tongue
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