Categorically False

1. A term frequently used by politicians when accused of something scandalous. It means: "I did it, but as long as there's no smoking gun I will deny it completely." Most such scandals involve illicit sex, bribery, influence peddling or misuse of public funds.

2. A worn-out public relations phrase that nobody believes anymore. Nixon's famous remark -- "I am not a crook" -- sounds positively Shakespearian in comparison.

"The accusation is categorically false!," said South Carolina Republican Nikki Haley. She is accused of having an "inappropriate physical relationship" with the governor's former press secretary.

by Peter Kobs May 25, 2010

categorically needy

People who fall into one or another category and thus may be eligible for public assistance.

She knew that since her husband had left her with five children, and that she hadn't had a job in ten years, she was one of those destitute persons who had now become categorically needy.

by Luddz June 29, 2015

categorically

A word used by politicians and company board members to avoid telling a lie.

I did not categorically have sexual relations with that woman.

I categorically deny all charges brought against me.

by Bloopy September 14, 2005

categorical imperative

A definition with teeth.

Professors will have you study this forever. Here's what you need to know. It means what it sounds like: an imperative (commandment) that you either follow, or you'll be reclassified as immoral.

Kant had his, and many people think his was the only one, but it's not true. A categorical imperative is a definition-based morality. Even the Utilitarians use them.

What will happen if I do something immoral?

You'll have done something immoral.

Oh, it's a categorical imperative.

by [e-mail] May 3, 2009

chategories

The categories you can choose from in a chatroom

When I chat in a chatroom I only chose chategories that interest me

by suzipam August 15, 2012

Categorically Untrue

1) A totaly meaningless phrase

2) What someone important about a truth to try and get out of it.

3) "I'm lying"

Asked directly in a telephone interview if he brought up the prospect of Palin suffering from post-partum depression, Schmidt said: “His allegation that I was defaming Palin by alleging post-partum depression at the campaign headquarters is categorically untrue. In fact, I think it rises to the level of a slander because it’s about the worst thing you can say about somebody who does what I do for a living.”

by irishtenor1 July 1, 2009

categorically deny

To not only deny something, but to imply that such an action is in a category of things that they would never partake in.

Another way of saying "I didn't do it, and I wouldn't ever do anything like that."

alleged rapist: "I categorically deny raping that woman"

by tumelo July 9, 2019