A "white lie" is a harmless or trivial lie, often told to avoid hurting someone's feelings or to maintain social harmony. These lies are typically considered socially acceptable and are used in everyday situations, such as complimenting someone's appearance or downplaying a minor inconvenience. While white lies can serve a positive purpose, they can also lead to misunderstandings if discovered. People often weigh the potential benefits against the risks of honesty, making white lies a common aspect of human interaction. The concept is often discussed in relation to ethics and communication, highlighting the complexities of truth-telling in relationships.