When false statements are allowed to be repeated without correction, we do everyone a disservice including the person who makes that statement. It's essential that our language and words are as truthful and precise as possible. This isn't always easy since words we hear are quickly translated via our perspectives, emotions, and experiences. I remember once, years ago, when I attended a testimonial for an individual. I left worried and discontented by the words expressed. I couldn't believe that people said what they said, but then the next day when I shared my feelings with a colleague, I realized she heard the words much differently than I did. Clearly my past experiences, perspectives, and emotions heard those words as negative while my colleague felt they were appropriate and rightly humorous. It's important to recognize that same words may have a variety of interpretations.
That's why it's important to question statements we feel are untrue or disingenuous rather than let those words be repeated again and again. It's also important to be open minded when your words are questioned too. Of course there will be situations where the amount of fear or worry associated with discussing commentary is too great and that obstructs the clarity possible. Every situation of untruths or exaggeration will not be easily remedied. In the end thought, it's best to use precision with language and question statements that appear untrue. The greater transparency and clarity we have in communication, the better we do.