How would I know if it is a lie? Until that is elucidated - anecdote is perfectly sufficient for speaking informally. I notice you also left out (conveniently)

How would I know if it is a lie? Until that is elucidated - anecdote is perfectly sufficient for speaking informally. I notice you also left out (conveniently) the 2nd definition: "an account regarded as unreliable or hearsay."