secondhand information

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "secondhand information" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to information that has been received from another source rather than being obtained directly. Example: "The report was based on secondhand information, which raised concerns about its accuracy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

But don't rely completely on secondhand information.

The New York Times

Nobody has ever contacted us on this issue, and we only have secondhand information from journalists".

The New York Times

After leaving Iraq in 1998, Kelly continued to monitor developments there, but he had to rely on secondhand information.

The New Yorker

Designers for the other companies -- Boffi, Ikea and the Home Depot -- may have been hampered because they had only secondhand information.

The New York Times

The inquiry, however, found that this claim — and similar information given to agencies in the United States about the other men — was largely based on secondhand information.

The New York Times

They are none of your affair, and the risk of hurt, or bum secondhand information, far outweighs the benefit of congratulatory remarks from a relative stranger.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

The second source was existing studies and secondhand data.

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

So "The Big Rich" gets much of its information secondhand.

The New York Times - Books

Bonds's lawyers countered that Valente's information was secondhand and therefore inadmissible.

The New York Times - Sports

"Some of my information is secondhand, but I know there's going to be names".

The New York Times - Sports

Earlier on Friday, the authorities thanked news media outlets for spreading the word that Bostonians should take shelter — and cautioned them against repeating secondhand or thinly sourced information.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "secondhand information", clearly acknowledge the original source to maintain transparency and credibility.

Common error

Don't treat "secondhand information" as inherently factual; always cross-reference and verify its accuracy from primary sources whenever possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "secondhand information" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes information that is not directly obtained but rather received from another source. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "secondhand information" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe information obtained indirectly. Ludwig AI confirms that it's a valid and usable term in English writing. It's frequently found in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts, reflecting its neutrality and broad applicability. When using "secondhand information", it's best to acknowledge its source to maintain transparency and to verify its accuracy whenever possible. Alternatives include "indirect information" and "hearsay", each with slightly different connotations regarding reliability and formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

indirect information

Emphasizes the lack of direct contact with the original source.

hearsay

Implies that the information is unverified and potentially unreliable.

derivative information

Highlights the process of obtaining information from a secondary source.

mediated information

Focuses on the role of an intermediary in conveying the information.

thirdhand accounts

Suggests information passed through multiple sources, potentially increasing distortion.

reported information

Indicates that the information comes from reports, which may not be primary sources.

unverified data

Highlights the lack of confirmation or validation of the information.

circumstantial evidence

Implies that the information is not directly linked to the matter at hand but rather suggestive.

someone else's account

Explicitly states that the information originates from another individual's perspective.

gossip

Suggests informal and potentially unreliable information spread through social channels.

FAQs

How can I use "secondhand information" in a sentence?

You can use "secondhand information" to describe data or facts you've learned indirectly. For example, "The report relied heavily on "secondhand information", which made it difficult to verify its accuracy."

What is a more formal alternative to "secondhand information"?

A more formal alternative is "indirect information". This term is suitable for academic or professional contexts where a neutral tone is preferred.

Is "hearsay" the same as "secondhand information"?

While both refer to information not directly experienced, "hearsay" often implies unverified and potentially unreliable information, especially in legal contexts. "Secondhand information" is a more neutral term.

When should I avoid using "secondhand information"?

Avoid relying solely on "secondhand information" when making critical decisions or reporting facts without verification. Always seek primary sources to confirm the "information".