Watching Body Language to Tell If Someone Is Lying

Do you hate when people lie to you? You aren't alone. 

 

Lying isn't pleasant, and it would be great if everyone would tell the truth. Since we know this won't happen, it's important to learn to read the body language signs that someone may be lying. This way, you will know who you can trust and who you better keep at an arm’s length. 

 

Watch for Lip Biting

 

When some bites or folds their lip before telling you something, this is a clear sign that they are lying. However, it may not be an outright lie as it could mean they are also holding something back. For this reason, be sure to watch someone's lips when they are talking. 

 

Look for Fidgeting

 

Fidgeting can come in many forms, from leg bouncing to table tapping or even lip biting. Either way, fidgeting is a sign of nervousness that usually presents itself when someone is about to lie. However, be careful with this one as someone in an uncomfortable situation, like a job interview, may fidget from nervousness, not dishonesty. 

 

Observe Their Eyes

 

When someone is open and honest with you, their eyes will look straight into yours. But if they are being dishonest, you will notice their eyes moving around the room. It is especially prevalent when you ask a question and are waiting for an answer. So next time you ask a question, shift from watching the lips to watching the eyes. 

 

Evaluate Any Delays

 

Did you ask a question, and the individual left a big space before answering? This behavior is a red flag that the person is about to lie. This large pause is them getting their story together and likely deciding they will lie rather than tell the truth. Therefore, besides just watching their eyes and mouth, be sure you are also listening for the pause indicating a lie is coming. 

 

Crossing the Feet at the Ankles

 

Crossing your legs is a sign that you are uncomfortable if crossed at the knee. If they are crossed lower at the ankles, this is a sign that the individual is lying. If you are sitting with someone at a table, this can be hard to check without being obvious, but if you can take a peek without drawing attention to yourself, definitely check if they are crossing their feet.

 

Now that you know some of the most obvious signs that someone is lying, the next time you head into a conversation where you aren't sure about the honesty of the person you are talking to, be sure to watch their body language. This way, you will know whether or not they are lying to you.