hearsay - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
hearsay Word Meanings
- information received from others that cannot be substantiated
- rumor or gossip
- an assertion made based on others' reports instead of direct knowledge
hearsay Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
hearsay Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈhɪə.seɪ/
US
/ˈhɪr.seɪ/
hearsay Word Etymology
hear + say = to hear something and then say it, thus conveying information indirectly. Historical origin: Old English 'hergan' + 'secgan' → Middle English 'heresaie' → Modern English 'hearsay'. Memory image: Imagine a game of telephone where one person whispers a rumor to another, illustrating how hearsay spreads.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Hearsay means information you hear from other people rather than something you witnessed yourself. It is usually secondhand and may be unverified, so you should treat it with caution. In everyday conversation, workplace chatter, and even some informal news, hearsay can travel quickly, but it is not a fact unless you can confirm the source. The word signals a cautious stance: we are reporting what someone else said, not what we know directly. For learners, distinguishing firsthand knowledge from hearsay helps you communicate more clearly and avoids repeating unverified claims as if they were proven.
Usage Reminders
- 5 short bullet-style reminders separated by
- - Do not treat hearsay as fact.
- - Check sources before sharing.
- - Distinguish firsthand knowledge from secondhand reports.
- - Be mindful that hearsay can spread quickly and be unreliable.
- - Use hedging like I heard that or rumor has it to signal uncertainty.
Common Misconceptions
- Hearsay is always a fact.
- If many people say it, it must be true.
- Repeating hearsay makes you a reliable source.
- In formal writing you can cite hearsay without verification.
- Hearsay is never relevant in decision making.
Thinking Differences
In English, hearsay is treated as a specific category of secondhand information; learners often conflate it with gossip or mere rumors. The focus is on noting uncertainty and sources, especially in formal writing or legal contexts.
Learning Tips
- Verify sources before sharing.
- Distinguish firsthand knowledge from secondhand reports.
- Use hedging to indicate uncertainty.
- Keep notes of where information came from.
- Compare multiple sources to confirm claims.
- Practice rewriting hearsay into verifiable facts.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'hearsay'?
A.Rumors or gossip
B.True information
C.Firsthand account
D.Factual evidence
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'hearsay' used correctly?
A.I heard a hearsay that the party was canceled.
B.She witnessed the accident firsthand, not based on hearsay.
C.The police only rely on hearsay evidence to solve cases.
D.The teacher always discusses hearsay with the students.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'hearsay'?
A.Truth
B.Inference
C.Gossip
D.Whisper
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'hearsay'?
A.Conjecture
B.Factual
C.Authentic
D.Speculation
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would you encounter 'hearsay'?
A.Medical examination
B.Courtroom trial
C.Mathematics class
D.Music concert
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