In today’s American English, the adjective “faux” does not actually mean “false.” Rather it denotes something that is “almost” true—and which is usually more instantly gratifying, both “physically” and “spiritually”—than dull, often unpleasant, truth. “Faux” is probably what Donald Trump (vaguely) means when he advocates “truthful hyperbole.”
By dictionary definition, of course, hyperbole is necessarily “false”—and hence, in any scientific, objective context, it simply cannot be truthful. No, in the original French sense of the word, hyperbole is unquestionably faux, i.e., fake.
Nevertheless, because The Donald’s bullshit often “sounds” good and “looks” good, many “lite-headed” Americans choose to believe that it is not a lie: that the BS is merely fashionably faux—in the American sense— like the “leather” on their biker pants or the “fur” on their hoodies. And, well, shinier and fuzzier than the genuine article. In short, a better deal for the money. Seemingly. (Until it falls apart disastrously after being used twice.)
This is why these folks will vote for a Faux Fixer (and a probable felon) to be president. The polls suggest that DJT will indeed win and attempt to Make America Great Again—again. Americans have always been suckers for hyperbole and “almost truth.” So, here we go, friends. Again. Another dumbass faux pas.
.
