unfounded — Not based on fact, evidence, or valid reasoning; lacking foundation or justification.
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: Not based on fact, evidence, or valid reasoning; lacking foundation or justification.
Pronunciation (IPA): /ʌnˈfaʊndɪd/
Example Sentences
- The teacher's suspicion that students were cheating turned out to be completely unfounded when she realized her answer key was wrong.
- Her worries about the presentation were unfounded - she received a standing ovation.
- The rumor that the cafeteria was serving alien food was unfounded, though the mystery meat did look suspicious.
unfounded
ADJECTIVE[/ʌnˈfaʊndɪd/]
Not based on fact, evidence, or valid reasoning; lacking foundation or justification.
Not based on fact, evidence, or valid reasoning; lacking foundation or justification.
Unfounded claims, now surrounded by facts, leave everyone astounded!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Middle English, combining the prefix 'un-' (not) with 'founded' (established on a foundation). The word literally means 'not based on a solid foundation,' like a building without proper groundwork.
Breakdown
un- (not/opposite) + found (establish/base) + -ed (past participle suffix)
🎵Rhyme
📝Examples
“The teacher's suspicion that students were cheating turned out to be completely unfounded when she realized her answer key was wrong.”
“Her worries about the presentation were unfounded - she received a standing ovation.”
“The rumor that the cafeteria was serving alien food was unfounded, though the mystery meat did look suspicious.”
“The company's claims about their product's effectiveness proved to be unfounded.”
📚Related Words
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