Moreover, within all of the good dharmas, truth is of the greatest. If one speaks true words, the four kinds of right speech are all entirely subsumed and realized. Additionally, the white-robed layperson abides in the world where he assumes the role of overseeing and management. He takes responsibility for the family business and issues orders. Hence it is difficult to uphold the dharma which requires not engaging in harsh speech.
False speech is a thing which is intentionally done.
Because it is a serious matter one should not engage in it. There are five degrees of acceptance of the five precepts which determine the five kinds of upaasaka . The first is the single-practice upaasaka . The second is the lesser-practice upaasaka . The third is the greater-practice upaasaka .