What phrase is repeatedly associated with Gregory House in House, M.D.?

“Everybody lies” is the phrase repeatedly associated with Gregory House in House, M.D.

House uses the phrase to express his belief that patients and other people often hide information, whether deliberately or because they do not understand what matters medically. For House, uncovering those omissions is central to solving difficult diagnostic cases.

The line functions as a recurring theme rather than a literal medical rule. The diagnostic team frequently tests statements, searches patients’ homes, and reconsiders histories when symptoms do not fit the initial story.

The phrase is also the title of the series’ second episode, “Everybody Lies,” and the title of the series finale, “Everybody Dies,” plays on it. It should not be confused with “people never change,” another idea connected with House’s worldview.