Meaning

Truth will out

The meaning of the phrase

The truth will become known eventually.

To sleep: perchance to dream: ay
To sleep: perchance to dream: ay

What’s the origin of the phrase ‘Truth will out’?

From Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice, 1596:

LAUNCELOT: Nay, indeed, if you had your eyes, you might fail of
the knowing me: it is a wise father that knows his
own child. Well, old man, I will tell you news of
your son: give me your blessing: truth will come
to light; murder cannot be hid long; a man’s son
may, but at the length truth will out.

Historical trend

“Truth will out” in printed material over time

Source: Google Books Ngrams (1800–2020).

180018201840186018801900192019401960198020002020
  • Truth will out

Cited as a source

Referenced by 2 trusted sources for this phrase

Backlink data verified June 2026 via Ahrefs (live index). These sources cite Phrase Finder as a reference for the meaning and origin of this expression.