# unconfirmed

/ˌənkənˈfɝmd/ (US) · /ʌnkənfˈɜːmd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unconfirmed
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

describing information that people think might be true but has not been proven yet. You use this when a story or fact lacks official proof.

For teachers: not yet verified or validated by an authoritative source. Often used in journalistic contexts to describe reports that lack official corroboration.

## Examples

- The news of the merger remains unconfirmed.
- Despite several unconfirmed reports on social media, the police have not yet released the names of the suspects.
- The editor decided to hold the story until the morning, as publishing unconfirmed rumors could damage the newspaper's reputation for accuracy and journalistic integrity.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as a predicative adjective after linking verbs like 'remain' or 'be', or as an attributive adjective before nouns like 'reports' or 'rumors'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.