rumor-mongering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rumor-mongering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the act of spreading rumors or engaging in gossip, often with a negative connotation. Example: "The constant rumor-mongering in the office created a toxic work environment that affected everyone's morale."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Burton does not engage in irresponsible speculation or rumor-mongering.

The New Yorker

Not everyone was pleased with such rumor-mongering.

The New York Times

There are only limited ways to quell sleazy rumor-mongering when it gains traction.

The New York Times

In the three days before the bombers were found, there was so much rampant rumor-mongering.

The New York Times

James Dimon, the chairman of JPMorgan, says rumor-mongering is unconscionable.

The New York Times

But he argued that transparency would be one way to counteract rumor-mongering on the Internet.

The New York Times

Rumor-mongering, of course, has long been the stock in trade of some on Wall Street.

The New York Times

Rumor-mongering is another, less civic, way the void has been filled.

The Guardian

But they are also bringing back the afflictions of the village: the dearth of privacy, intolerance, rumor-mongering.

The New York Times

In addition to "cyberpolarization," there is another important democratic dynamic at work in the disappointing vitality of Internet rumor-mongering.

The New Yorker

Nevertheless, in an unusual weekend announcement, the S.E.C. said on Sunday that it would crack down on rumor-mongering.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Be specific about the nature of the rumors being spread and the impact they are having. This adds clarity and depth to your writing.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the impact of "rumor-mongering" without sufficient evidence. Overblown claims can undermine your credibility. Instead, focus on factual reporting and measured analysis.

Linguistic Context

"Rumor-mongering" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used to describe the act of spreading unverified or malicious information. Ludwig examples show it appearing as the subject or object of sentences, highlighting its role in shaping events or influencing perceptions. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "rumor-mongering" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that describes the act of spreading unverified or malicious information. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and can be used in almost every kind of written communication. While often carrying a negative connotation, its communicative purpose generally critiques and condemns the spreading of such information. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, the term's neutral to slightly formal register makes it suitable for analytical and critical discussions. When using "rumor-mongering", it's crucial to consider the specific context and avoid sensationalizing the situation without proper evidence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gossiping

A general term for casual conversation about other people, often involving unconfirmed details.

spreading gossip

Focuses on casual or intimate dissemination of rumors.

peddling rumors

Implies active and perhaps self-serving distribution of rumors.

trafficking in rumors

Highlights the act of trading and profiting from circulating unverified information.

purveying gossip

Indicates the act of habitually providing or spreading rumors.

circulating hearsay

Emphasizes the informal and potentially unreliable nature of the information being spread.

fomenting gossip

Stresses actively instigating or stirring up gossip and rumors.

spreading disinformation

Focuses on intentionally spreading false or inaccurate information.

engaging in scuttlebutt

Emphasizes informal and often speculative conversation or rumors.

spreading tales

Highlights the fabrication or exaggeration of stories while sharing them.

FAQs

How can "rumor-mongering" affect a professional environment?

"Rumor-mongering" can create a toxic work environment, damage reputations, and decrease productivity. It can lead to mistrust and conflict among colleagues.

What are some alternatives to "rumor-mongering"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "spreading gossip", "peddling rumors", or "circulating hearsay".

Is "rumor-mongering" always malicious?

While "rumor-mongering" often implies a negative intent, it can also occur unintentionally due to miscommunication or lack of verification. However, even unintentional "rumor-mongering" can have harmful consequences.

How does "rumor-mongering" differ from simple gossip?

"Rumor-mongering" often suggests a more widespread or intentional effort to spread unverified information, whereas gossip can be more casual and localized. "Rumor-mongering" tends to be about things or subjects of public concern while gossip concerns personal life.