Word
unfounded
Phoneticsun·found·ed, stress on the second syllable
US/ənˈfaʊndɪd/
UK/ʌnfˈaʊndɪd/
Definition
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.
Examples
“The rumors about the company closing were completely unfounded.”
“The investigation concluded that the allegations of corruption were unfounded and based on hearsay.”
“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.”
Examples
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.”
Usage
Typically used to modify nouns like 'rumors', 'fears', 'claims', or 'allegations'.
Real-World Examples
“In response to the film-makers’ requests for comment, Boeing stated that some of the claims against the company “remain unfounded” and that “others are issues that Boeing thoroughly addressed or continues to improve upon”.” “Grifols, a Spanish company, said “unfounded attention” on its blood plasma business in Canada had led it to temporarily end collections at 17 clinics.” Etymology
From un- + founded.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/unfounded