without foundation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "without foundation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that lacks a basis, justification, or support, often in the context of claims or arguments. Example: "The accusations made against him were completely without foundation, as there was no evidence to support them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

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

Forbes

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

Vice

They were without foundation.

The New Yorker

This allegation is without foundation".

Independent

They are without foundation".

The Guardian

This fear is not without foundation.

The Economist

They are completely and utterly without foundation.

Independent

Such worries are not entirely without foundation.

The Economist

This charge wasn't entirely without foundation.

The New Yorker

Richardson's reservations were not without foundation.

The New York Times

They are false and totally without foundation.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, consider whether the context requires a stronger or more direct synonym, such as "baseless" or "unfounded", for added emphasis.

Common error

Avoid using "without foundation" when you simply disagree with something. The phrase implies a complete lack of supporting evidence, not just a difference of opinion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "without foundation" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun (such as 'allegations', 'claims', or 'fears') to indicate that it lacks a basis in fact or evidence. This usage aligns with Ludwig's analysis of the phrase as correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "without foundation" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey that something lacks a factual or logical basis. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and applicable in various writing styles. Predominantly found in news and media, it also appears in academic and encyclopedic content. When employing this phrase, ensure it aligns with the intention of dismissing claims or fears as entirely unsupported, and consider alternative phrasing like "baseless" or "unfounded" for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Baseless

Focuses on the lack of any base or support for a claim or idea.

Unfounded

Emphasizes the absence of a solid ground or reason for something.

Groundless

Highlights the lack of any grounds or justification.

Unsupported

Indicates a lack of evidence or backing.

Having no basis in fact

Directly points out the lack of factual support.

Lacking substance

Stresses the absence of real content or importance.

Devoid of truth

Emphasizes the absence of truth or accuracy.

Without merit

Highlights the absence of value or worth.

Untenable

Suggests that something cannot be defended or maintained.

Imaginary

Suggests a quality of originating purely in the imagination; not based on fact or reality

FAQs

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

You can use "without foundation" to indicate that a claim or idea lacks any basis or supporting evidence. For example, "The accusations against him were "without foundation"."

What are some alternatives to "without foundation"?

Alternatives to "without foundation" include "baseless", "unfounded", or "groundless", which all convey a similar meaning of lacking substance or support.

Is it better to say "without foundation" or "unfounded"?

Both "without foundation" and "unfounded" are correct, but "without foundation" may sound slightly more formal. The best choice depends on the context and desired tone.

Can "without foundation" be used for fears or only for claims?

"Without foundation" can be used for both claims and fears to indicate a lack of basis. For example, "His fears about the company's future were "without foundation" given their recent success."