In House M.D., which character is known for the phrase “Everybody lies”?

Gregory House is the character known for the phrase “Everybody lies” in House M.D.

House uses the phrase to express his belief that patients often conceal information, misunderstand symptoms, or deliberately mislead doctors. Because accurate diagnosis depends on reliable evidence, he treats a patient’s story as one source of data rather than unquestionable truth.

The line became one of the show’s signature ideas and is closely connected to House’s diagnostic method. He encourages his team to investigate behavior, medical records, test results, and circumstances outside the examination room. In the series, this skepticism sometimes helps uncover the correct diagnosis, although House’s confrontational manner frequently damages trust.

“Everybody lies” is associated with House, but it does not mean that every statement by every patient is intentionally false. The show uses the phrase as a dramatic shorthand for incomplete information and human self-protection. “Everybody Lies” is also the title of a House episode, reinforcing the connection between the quotation and the character.