B1 2K

Rumor

UK //ˈruːmə// US //ˈrumər// Pronunciation

Definition

A story or statement that is circulated without confirmation.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A story or news that might not be true.

Examples

• There's a rumor going around that the company is downsizing.
• She tried to dismiss the rumor as just gossip.
• The rumor spread quickly among the students.
• He said it was just a rumor and shouldn't be taken seriously.
• Rumors about the celebrity's relationship were everywhere.

Usage notes

Use 'rumor' in conversations or writing about unconfirmed information but avoid in formal reports or academic writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'rumor' as a 'room' where stories spread quickly.

Collocations

• spread a rumor
• confirm a rumor
• hear a rumor
• deny a rumor
• circulate a rumor

Synonyms

• gossip
• hearsay
• tale
• legend
• scuttlebutt

Antonyms

• fact
• truth
• reality

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'rumours' in British English vs 'rumors' in American English.
• Using it as a verb (e.g., 'to rumor') instead of a noun.
• Confusing 'hearsay' with 'rumor' without understanding nuance.