ENGLISH
REFERENCE

unfounded

adj.
C1 Advanced US //ənˈfaʊndɪd// UK //ʌnfˈaʊndɪd// un·found·ed Archaic

adj. not based on facts or evidence. You use this to describe a worry, a rumor, or an idea that is not true.

adj. lacking a sound basis in fact or evidence. Often describes claims, fears, or allegations that have no empirical support.


SIMPLE

The rumors about the company closing were completely unfounded.

CONTEXTUAL

The investigation concluded that the allegations of corruption were unfounded and based on hearsay.

COMPLEX

Despite the widespread panic, scientific data proved that the public's fears regarding the environmental impact were largely unfounded and based on a misunderstanding of the report.

Synonyms
Origin

From un- + founded.

Usage

Typically used to modify nouns like 'rumors', 'fears', 'claims', or 'allegations'.

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