hearsay

word

Definition

Information or a story that someone has heard from others, but that has not been confirmed as true.

Usage & Nuances

'Hearsay' is formal, often used in legal, academic, or serious conversations. Common in phrases like 'hearsay evidence', meaning information not accepted as proof in court. It's not used for light gossip; it's usually about passing on information without proof.

Example Sentences

That is just hearsay, not a fact.

basic

The court does not accept hearsay as evidence.

basic

I don't believe in hearsay.

basic

Most of what people said about the incident was just hearsay.

natural

There's a lot of hearsay going around about the new boss.

natural

Don’t make decisions based on hearsay.

natural