spreading gossip

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spreading gossip" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of sharing rumors or unverified information about others, often in a casual or informal context. Example: "She was known for spreading gossip about her coworkers, which created a tense atmosphere in the office."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Spreading gossip can be punished with a fine.

The Economist

'They're all far too busy talking, spreading gossip, scandal and innuendo.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Bullying involved persistent criticism, yelling, spreading gossip, insults and ignoring or excluding workers from office activities.

The New York Times

Other pivotal plot points: getting bad advice from a friend or suffering the consequences of spreading gossip.

The New York Times - Arts

"Authorities should make sure that there is no one making unnecessary complaints or spreading gossip … regarding this project," it added.

The Guardian

Occasionally, the performers would crouch down and sing to the babies one on one, as if spreading gossip.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

They spread gossip to deflect attention.

Harvard Business Review

Certainly don't spread gossip about the guy.

The New York Times - Magazine

Not to spread gossip, but Fleming and Cooper were both lovers of Clara Bow – at the same time.

The Guardian - Film

To preëmpt bullying, she would spread gossip about herself and how edgy she was.

The New Yorker

e. Who, according to Ed Schlenker, wants an online space to spread gossip and rumors?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, consider the context and audience. Using "spreading gossip" is appropriate for informal communication or when describing informal behavior. In formal contexts, consider more neutral terms like "circulating information" or "discussing rumors".

Common error

Avoid using "spreading gossip" in academic or professional documents. It can sound unprofessional. Instead, opt for phrases like "disseminating unverified information" or "circulating rumors" for a more objective tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spreading gossip" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun. It describes the action of sharing rumors or private information, typically with negative implications. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "spreading gossip" is a grammatically correct and frequently used gerund phrase describing the act of sharing unverified or private information, often with negative connotations. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is suitable for various contexts, though it's best to consider the tone and audience when using it. While common in news and informal settings, it should be used cautiously in professional or academic writing. Related phrases like "circulating rumors" or "disseminating hearsay" offer more formal alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

circulating rumors

Focuses on the transmission of unverified information, similar to gossip but potentially broader.

disseminating hearsay

Highlights the act of spreading unconfirmed information obtained from others.

peddling tales

Suggests a more deliberate and possibly malicious intent in spreading stories.

airing dirty laundry

Implies revealing private and potentially scandalous information.

broadcasting scuttlebutt

Refers to the act of sharing informal and often unreliable information.

relaying rumors

Emphasizes the act of passing on unverified information from one person to another.

purveying scandal

Focuses on spreading scandalous or defamatory information.

divulging secrets

Highlights the act of revealing confidential information.

telling tales out of school

Suggests revealing information that should have remained private, often in a workplace or school setting.

making allegations

Focuses on making claims or accusations, which may or may not be true.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "spreading gossip" in a formal context?

In formal writing, you can replace "spreading gossip" with phrases like "disseminating unverified information", "circulating rumors", or "spreading unsubstantiated claims".

What are some synonyms for "spreading gossip"?

Some synonyms for "spreading gossip" include "circulating rumors", "disseminating hearsay", "peddling tales", and "airing dirty laundry".

Is "spreading gossip" always negative?

Yes, "spreading gossip" generally carries a negative connotation because it implies sharing potentially harmful or untrue information about others.

What is the difference between "spreading gossip" and "sharing news"?

"Sharing news" typically involves conveying factual information, whereas "spreading gossip" involves sharing unverified or private information, often with the intent to create intrigue or negativity. The key difference lies in the veracity and intent behind the information being shared.