That is not true vs That's not right

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

That is not true

Top 2,000 (common)

That's not right

Top 3,000 (common)
Most common: That is not true
 That is not trueThat's not right
Pronunciation🇬🇧 //ðæt ɪz nɒt truː//🇺🇸 //ðæt ɪz nɑt tru//🇬🇧 //ðæts nɒt raɪt//🇺🇸 //ðæts nɑt raɪt//
MeaningThis means something is false or inaccurate.That is incorrect or unfair.
ExampleWhen she said she could fly, I thought to myself, that is not true.When he claimed the project was successful, I thought to myself, 'That's not right.'
RegisterNeutralNeutral
How commonTop 2,000 (common)Top 3,000 (common)
Collocationssay that is not true, hear that is not true, prove that is not truethat's not right at all, that's not right to say, that's not right for you, that's not right in this situation
Common mistakesUsing 'that' instead of 'this' in close conversations., Confusing with 'that's not right' which has a slightly different meaning., Forgetting to use 'is' when making the statement.Using in a formal report or presentation where a softer expression is better., Misusing it in a context where clarification is needed instead of just saying it's wrong.
Usage notesThis phrase is commonly used in both spoken and written English to dispute a claim. It can be slightly confrontational, so consider the context.Use this phrase to indicate disagreement or to highlight a mistake. It's neutral and suitable in most contexts. Avoid in overly formal situations.

See it in real clips

That is not true
That's not right

Frequently asked questions: That is not true vs That's not right

What's the difference between That is not true and That's not right?

That is not true: This means something is false or inaccurate. That's not right: That is incorrect or unfair.

Which is more common: That is not true and That's not right?

That is not true is the most common in everyday English.

Can you show an example of each?

That is not true: When she said she could fly, I thought to myself, that is not true. That's not right: When he claimed the project was successful, I thought to myself, 'That's not right.'

Can I use That is not true and That's not right interchangeably?

Not always. That is not true and That's not right are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.