Quick Answer

FALSE Function

Returns the logical value FALSE.

Syntax

FALSE

()

Basic Example

Return a FALSE value

=FALSE()

ResultFALSE

The function evaluates to the logical constant FALSE with no input needed.

Advanced Examples

Example 1: Use inside a condition

Force the false branch of an IF

Return FALSE from a formula

=IF(FALSE(),"Yes","No")

Result: No

Because FALSE() is logical FALSE, the IF returns its value_if_false.

Example 2: Explicit boolean in a check

Compare a cell to a target

Return FALSE on a non-match

=IF(A1=10,TRUE(),FALSE())

Result: FALSE when A1 is not 10

Returns the explicit TRUE/FALSE constants instead of relying on implicit coercion.

How FALSE Works

FALSE is a function wrapper around the FALSE logical constant. It performs no computation and accepts no arguments; it is provided for compatibility and explicit boolean building.

1

Type the function

Enter =FALSE() with empty parentheses.

2

Use the result

Reference it in logical tests like IF or AND.

Important Notes & Limitations

Takes no arguments; supplying any returns #VALUE!.
Mostly redundant because the literal FALSE works the same in formulas.
Stored as a logical value, not the text "FALSE".

Common Errors & Fixes

#VALUE! errorPassing an argument such as =FALSE(1).

Fix: Leave the parentheses empty: =FALSE().

Download Practice File

Practice FALSE with Real Data

Download a sample CSV file with pre-populated data and practice exercises for the FALSE function. Works in both Excel and Google Sheets.

Works in Google SheetsCompatible with ExcelIncludes exercises

File format: CSV (comma-separated values) - opens in Excel, Google Sheets, and all spreadsheet apps

Related Functions

AND

AND checks if ALL conditions are TRUE.

IF

IF checks a condition and returns different values based on whether it is true or false.

IFERROR

IFERROR catches errors and returns a custom value instead.

IFNA

Replaces #N/A errors with a fallback value.

IFS

A simpler way to write multiple IF statements without nesting.

NOT

NOT flips TRUE to FALSE and FALSE to TRUE.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is FALSE() different from typing FALSE?

No, =FALSE() and the constant FALSE behave the same in calculations.

Can FALSE take arguments?

No; it returns #VALUE! if you supply any.

What type is the result?

A logical (boolean) value, not text.