Hearsay

usgb/ˈhɪrseɪ/
noun

Information that you have heard but don't know for sure to be true.

I heard a piece of hearsay about our new boss, but I'm waiting to meet him before I make my own judgment.
Visual representation of "hearsay" - Information that you have heard but don't know for sure to be true

Often appears as...

  • piece of hearsay
  • hearsay evidence
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "hearsay"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Verify First

Check the truth before trusting hearsay, as it may be false or misleading.

Illustration for Verify First
Don't believe the hearsay about the haunted house until you've seen it yourself.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Social Caution

Sharing hearsay can harm reputations; think carefully about repeating unconfirmed info.

Illustration for Social Caution
She spread hearsay about the celebrity, and it turned out to be a baseless rumor.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Evidence

In casual conversation, hearsay is not strong proof, so use it cautiously in discussions.

Illustration for Not Evidence
His argument was weak because it was based on hearsay rather than facts.
Visual representation of the word "Hearsay"

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