Here are some key characteristics:
* Intentionality: The speaker knows the statement is false and chooses to say it anyway.
* Deception: The speaker aims to deceive the listener into believing something that is not true.
* Verbal communication: The lie is expressed through spoken words.
It's important to note that:
* White lies, which are small, harmless falsehoods told to avoid hurting someone's feelings, are often considered less serious than deliberate lies.
* Mistakes, which are unintentional errors in communication, are not lies.
Examples of spoken lies:
* "I finished my homework," when the speaker hasn't actually done it.
* "I didn't eat the cookies," when the speaker actually did.
* "I'm not angry," when the speaker is clearly upset.
It's important to be aware of the consequences of lying, as it can damage trust and relationships.