informal 2K

Gossip

UK //ˈɡɒs.ɪp// US //ˈɡɑː.sɪp// Pronunciation

Definition

Talking about personal or private matters about others, often involving rumors.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Talking about someone else's private life or rumors.

Examples

• They love to gossip about their neighbors' love life.
• I heard some interesting gossip during lunch today.
• Avoid gossip; it can hurt people's feelings.
• She always knows the latest gossip at work.
• It's not nice to gossip about someone's mistakes.
• He got upset when he found out about the gossip circulating.</

Usage notes

Use 'gossip' in informal contexts, often among friends or family. Avoid in formal settings, like meetings or presentations.

Grammar pattern

gossip + (about) + object

Memory hint

Think of 'gossip' as 'gossiping girls' around a water cooler.

Collocations

• spread gossip
• engage in gossip
• latest gossip
• gossip column
• gossip mill

Synonyms

• rumor
• tattle
• chitchat
• scandal
• whisper

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'gossiping' as in 'He was gossiping with her'.
• 'Gossip' often refers to both the act and the information discussed.