Meaning
Lies are easily exposed and do not last long; the truth always comes out.
Cultural Background
In Brazil, the phrase is often shortened to 'Mentira tem perna curta' (singular). It is a staple of 'novelas' (soap operas) where secrets are a main plot point. Portuguese people might use the more traditional 'Mais depressa se apanha um mentiroso do que um coxo'. It reflects a more rural, traditional linguistic heritage. The proverb is widely used in African Lusophone countries with the same meaning, often integrated into local fables about animals (like the tortoise and the hare). In the age of 'Fake News', this proverb has seen a resurgence in Brazil as a 'fact-checking' slogan.
Use for emphasis
Use this phrase at the end of a story to provide a moral 'punchline'.
Don't over-explain
Native speakers know the meaning perfectly; you don't need to explain why the legs are short.
Meaning
Lies are easily exposed and do not last long; the truth always comes out.
Use for emphasis
Use this phrase at the end of a story to provide a moral 'punchline'.
Don't over-explain
Native speakers know the meaning perfectly; you don't need to explain why the legs are short.
Brazilian variation
Drop the 's' in casual Brazilian speech: 'Mentira tem perna curta'.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the correct words.
A mentira tem _______ _______.
The standard proverb uses 'pernas' (legs) and 'curtas' (short).
Which situation best fits the proverb 'A mentira tem pernas curtas'?
Situation: João told his boss he was sick, but the boss saw him at the beach on Instagram.
This is a classic case of a lie being quickly exposed by evidence.
Match the Portuguese words to their English meanings.
Match the following:
These are the core components of the proverb.
Fill in the missing line in the dialogue.
Filho: 'Eu não quebrei o vaso!' Mãe: 'Mas eu vi você jogando bola na sala. _________.'
The mother is catching the child in a lie.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesA mentira tem _______ _______.
The standard proverb uses 'pernas' (legs) and 'curtas' (short).
Situation: João told his boss he was sick, but the boss saw him at the beach on Instagram.
This is a classic case of a lie being quickly exposed by evidence.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are the core components of the proverb.
Filho: 'Eu não quebrei o vaso!' Mãe: 'Mas eu vi você jogando bola na sala. _________.'
The mother is catching the child in a lie.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYes, if a friend makes a playful, obvious lie, you can say it with a smile.
Both are correct. 'Pernas curtas' is the standard plural, while 'perna curta' is a common singular variation in Brazil.
It's not rude, but it is a direct accusation of lying. Use it carefully with superiors.
Absolutely. It is one of the most common proverbs in the Portuguese language.
Related Phrases
Cair a máscara
similarTo have the mask fall; to be revealed for who you truly are.
Pego com a boca na botija
similarCaught with your mouth on the jar (caught red-handed).
Dar com a língua nos dentes
relatedTo hit the tongue against the teeth (to spill the beans).
A verdade dói
contrastThe truth hurts.
