is without foundation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is without foundation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a claim or argument lacks evidence or basis in reality. Example: "The accusation against her is without foundation, as there is no proof to support it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Philip Larkin's "Mr Bleaney" is "almost embarrassingly lucid", and the thought that it represents the work of an "important poet" is "without foundation".

The Guardian - Books

This allegation is without foundation".

Independent

"This myth is without foundation in fact".

The New Yorker

"That number is without foundation," he said.

The New York Times

They spread a myth that is without foundation.

The Guardian - Opinion

But in a letter to the Observer, Houghton said: "The quote from me is without foundation.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Earlier this week it said the allegations were "without foundation", adding that it would be "vigorously defending" its legal position.

The Guardian - Business

Marlborough, run by the Duke of Beaufort and Gilbert Lloyd, son of the gallery's founder, said the accusations against the gallery were "without foundation".

The New York Times - Arts

Goldman says only that any allegations of oil price manipulation are "without foundation".

Forbes

The MP's claim that the club had no intention to return to the Coventry area were "without foundation", a Sky Blues spokesman said.

BBC

Fantino's lawyer said the allegations are "without foundation".

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is without foundation", ensure the context clearly indicates what claim or statement lacks support. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the subject of the assertion.

Common error

While "is without foundation" is grammatically correct, overuse in less formal writing can sound stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "is baseless" or "is untrue" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is without foundation" functions as a predicate adjective, describing a noun (typically a claim, allegation, or theory) as lacking any basis or support. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a grammatically sound way to express disbelief or dismissal due to the absence of evidence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is without foundation" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate that a claim or argument lacks any factual basis or evidence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for a range of contexts, particularly news, academic writing, and encyclopedia entries. While it maintains a neutral to formal tone, simpler alternatives like "is baseless" or "is unfounded" may be preferable in less formal settings. Remember to specify the claim being refuted to avoid ambiguity and ensure clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is baseless

Replaces 'without foundation' with a single adjective emphasizing the lack of basis.

is groundless

Similar to 'baseless', but implies a lack of reason or justification.

is unfounded

Indicates that something lacks a factual basis or evidence.

is unsubstantiated

Highlights the absence of supporting evidence or proof.

is unsupported

Emphasizes the lack of backing or validation.

has no basis

Directly states the absence of a fundamental element or starting point.

lacks merit

Shifts focus to the quality of the claim, indicating it's not worthy of consideration.

is a fallacy

Labels the statement as a deceptive or false idea.

is untrue

States directly that something is not in accordance with fact or reality.

is a myth

Implies the statement is a widely held but false belief or idea.

FAQs

What does "is without foundation" mean?

The phrase "is without foundation" means that a claim, argument, or belief lacks evidence or a factual basis. It suggests that there is no support for the assertion being made.

How can I use "is without foundation" in a sentence?

You can use "is without foundation" to express that something is not supported by facts or evidence. For example, "The accusation that he stole the money "is without foundation", as there were no witnesses."

Which is more appropriate, "is without foundation" or "is unfounded"?

Both "is without foundation" and "is unfounded" are appropriate. "Is unfounded" may be considered slightly more common in contemporary usage, but "is without foundation" carries a similar meaning and can add a touch of formality.

What are some alternatives to "is without foundation"?

Some alternatives to "is without foundation" include "is baseless", "is groundless", or "is unsubstantiated". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.