Pronunciation: [tˈɛl ɐ wˈa͡ɪt lˈa͡ɪ] (IPA) 
The phrase "tell a white lie" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /tɛl ə waɪt laɪ/. The "t" in "tell" is pronounced with a soft "l" sound, while the "a" in "white" is pronounced as a long "a" sound. The "i" in "lie" is pronounced as a short "i" sound. The phrase means to tell a small or harmless lie, often to avoid hurting someone's feelings or getting into trouble.
"Tell a white lie" is a common idiom used to describe the act of intentionally telling a small, harmless or trivial lie in order to avoid hurting someone's feelings, preserving peace or maintaining social harmony. This phrase is derived from the belief that the color white symbolizes innocence, purity, and goodness, thus imbuing the lie with a relatively harmless quality.
A white lie is typically employed when honesty may lead to unnecessary conflict, discomfort, or distress, often in matters of politeness, etiquette, or sensitive situations. It commonly occurs in situations where the truth is considered to be unnecessary or irrelevant. While the specific contexts may vary, examples of white lies can be found in cases such as complimenting someone's appearance when it may not be entirely true, or reassuring someone that everything is fine to provide temporary relief.
While white lies are generally regarded as being harmless or well-intended, there exists a fine line between these types of lies and dishonesty. The intention behind a white lie is to protect another person's feelings or maintain a positive social atmosphere, rather than to deceive or manipulate. However, repeated use of white lies can potentially erode trust and credibility.
The concept of telling a white lie acknowledges the complex dynamics of social interactions and the importance of balancing honesty with empathy and compassion. It is a delicate art that enables individuals to navigate various social situations tactfully and with consideration for the emotions of others.
