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B1 noun #39 가장 일반적인 17분 분량

rumors

상위 39

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁 rumors 30초 만에

설명 rumors in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of 'rumors' as 'stories people tell that might not be true.' Imagine you are at school and a friend says, 'I think we have no homework today.' If you don't know for sure, that is a rumor. It is like a secret that everyone is talking about. You use this word when you hear something but you are not 100% sure if it is a fact. For example, 'I heard a rumor about a party.' It is a simple way to talk about information that is not official yet. You can use it with words like 'hear' or 'say.' Even at this beginning level, it is good to know that rumors are often about people or events that are exciting or interesting to talk about.

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For A2 learners, 'rumors' are unverified reports or stories that spread from person to person. They are different from facts because nobody has proven them yet. You might hear rumors in your neighborhood or at your job. For example, 'There are rumors that the shop is closing.' This means people are talking about the shop closing, but the owner has not said anything yet. At this level, you can start using 'rumors' in the plural because we usually hear more than one story. You can also use adjectives like 'good' or 'bad' to describe them. It is an important word for understanding social situations and what people are talking about in their free time.

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At the B1 level, you should understand 'rumors' as information or stories that are passed around but have not been proven true. They often involve personal details about others or upcoming events and can spread very quickly through a community. You will often see this word in news stories about celebrities or in office environments. You should be able to use it with common verbs like 'spread,' 'start,' or 'hear.' For example, 'Rumors are spreading about the new manager.' You also understand that rumors can be harmful if they are not true. This level involves recognizing that rumors are a part of everyday communication and that it is important to check if they are true before believing them.

B2 learners should recognize 'rumors' as unconfirmed reports that circulate within a group or society. You should be familiar with more complex collocations like 'quell a rumor,' 'deny rumors,' or 'confirm rumors.' At this level, you understand the social and psychological reasons why rumors exist—often to fill a gap in information during times of uncertainty. You can use the word in more formal contexts, such as business or politics. For example, 'The company issued a statement to deny rumors of a merger.' You also understand the difference between 'rumors' and 'gossip,' noting that rumors can be about more serious or public topics. You should be able to discuss the impact of rumors on a person's reputation or a company's stock price.

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At the C1 level, you have a nuanced understanding of 'rumors' as a form of social communication that can be used for various purposes, including manipulation or social bonding. You are familiar with synonyms like 'hearsay,' 'speculation,' and 'scuttlebutt,' and you know when to use each one for the right register. You can discuss the 'propagation of rumors' in social networks and the role of 'gatekeepers' in controlling them. You understand how rumors can be used in 'whisper campaigns' to influence public opinion. Your vocabulary includes sophisticated adjectives like 'scurrilous,' 'unfounded,' or 'persistent' to describe rumors. You can analyze how rumors change as they spread, using terms like 'leveling' and 'sharpening.'

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For C2 learners, 'rumors' are a complex phenomenon of collective behavior and social psychology. You can discuss the etymology of the word and its historical significance in shaping events. You understand the legal implications of rumors, such as how they relate to 'defamation' and 'libel.' You can use the word in highly academic or literary contexts, exploring how rumors function as a narrative device or a tool of political subversion. You are aware of the subtle differences between 'rumors,' 'canards,' and 'urban legends.' You can articulate the ethical responsibilities of journalists and individuals in the face of rapidly spreading digital rumors. Your use of the word is precise, idiomatic, and culturally aware, reflecting a deep mastery of the English language.

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연습하기 예시 노트와 팁

rumors 30초 만에

Rumors are unverified stories passed between people, often lacking proof.
They spread rapidly in communities, especially during times of uncertainty or excitement.
Commonly used in news, offices, and social media to describe speculation.
Distinguished from gossip by their broader range of topics beyond personal lives.

The word rumors refers to stories, reports, or statements that are currently circulating among people but lack immediate confirmation or definitive proof of their accuracy. In the landscape of human communication, rumors serve as a primary vehicle for the transmission of unverified information, often filling the void left by a lack of official news. They are essentially the 'social glue' or 'social poison' of a community, depending on their intent and impact. People use this word when they want to describe information that has been heard through the grapevine rather than through an official announcement. It is a noun that carries a sense of uncertainty and often a hint of intrigue or danger. Because rumors are not grounded in established facts, they are subject to change as they pass from one person to another, much like the children's game of 'telephone.' In a professional environment, rumors might involve potential layoffs or leadership changes, while in a social setting, they often revolve around personal relationships or scandalous behavior. The psychological drive behind the creation and spread of rumors is often linked to anxiety, curiosity, or the desire to feel 'in the know.' When people feel uncertain about the future, they tend to generate and share rumors as a way to make sense of their environment. This word is essential for navigating social dynamics because it allows a speaker to categorize information as 'potentially true but not yet verified,' which is a crucial distinction in both casual and formal discourse.

The Nature of Hearsay: Rumors are characterized by their lack of a clear source. Unlike a news report that cites a specific witness, a rumor usually begins with 'I heard that...' or 'People are saying...'

Despite the lack of evidence, the rumors about the company's bankruptcy spread like wildfire through the office.

The speed at which rumors spread is another defining characteristic. In the digital age, a single tweet or post can turn a local rumor into a global phenomenon within minutes. This rapid dissemination often makes it difficult for the truth to catch up, leading to the common saying that 'a lie can travel halfway around the world while the truth is still putting on its shoes.' In literature and history, rumors have been used as powerful tools for political manipulation or social control. For example, during times of war, rumors are often intentionally planted to confuse the enemy or demoralize the civilian population. Understanding the word 'rumors' requires recognizing that it is almost always plural in common usage, as these stories rarely exist in isolation; they are part of a larger stream of chatter. When a rumor is eventually proven true, it ceases to be a rumor and becomes a fact. Conversely, if it is proven false, it is labeled as a 'false rumor' or a 'debunked myth.' The word is neutral in its literal definition but often carries a negative connotation because of the potential harm that unverified information can cause to reputations and social stability.

Social Context: In high schools and small towns, rumors often focus on the private lives of individuals, serving as a form of social currency that can elevate or diminish a person's status.

The celebrity had to issue a public statement to deny the rumors regarding her health.

Furthermore, the word 'rumors' is often paired with verbs like 'circulate,' 'spread,' 'quell,' 'deny,' or 'confirm.' These collocations help define the lifecycle of a rumor. To 'quell' a rumor means to stop it from spreading, usually by providing the actual facts. To 'circulate' a rumor suggests a more passive or widespread movement of the story. In academic or psychological studies, rumors are analyzed as a form of collective behavior. Researchers look at how rumors change as they are retold—a process known as 'leveling' (where details are lost), 'sharpening' (where certain details are emphasized), and 'assimilation' (where the story is distorted to fit the teller's existing beliefs). This complexity makes 'rumors' a fascinating word that bridges the gap between simple gossip and significant historical events. Whether it is a whisper in a hallway or a trending topic on social media, rumors represent the human tendency to communicate even when the full truth is not yet available.

Professional Implications: In the business world, rumors about mergers or acquisitions can cause stock prices to fluctuate wildly, demonstrating the tangible power of unverified talk.

Market rumors suggested that the tech giant was planning to buy its smaller competitor.

The principal addressed the student body to put an end to the rumors about the upcoming exam changes.

There are persistent rumors that the old mansion on the hill is haunted by its former owner.

Using the word rumors correctly involves understanding its role as a plural noun and its typical grammatical environment. It is most commonly used as the object of a verb or the subject of a sentence describing an action of spreading or existing. For instance, you might say, 'Rumors are spreading,' where 'rumors' is the subject. Alternatively, you could say, 'He started the rumors,' where it is the direct object. Because rumors are inherently collective—rarely is there just one single rumor without variations—the plural form is the standard. If you must use the singular, you would say 'a rumor' or 'one rumor.' When constructing sentences, it is helpful to use descriptive adjectives to specify the type of rumor. Adjectives like 'baseless,' 'vicious,' 'persistent,' 'unfounded,' or 'widespread' add significant depth to your meaning. For example, 'vicious rumors' implies that the stories are intended to cause harm, while 'baseless rumors' suggests there is absolutely no evidence for them. This level of detail helps the listener understand the speaker's perspective on the information being shared.

Common Verb Pairings: Verbs like 'dispel,' 'quash,' 'refute,' and 'substantiate' are frequently used in formal contexts to describe the management of rumors.

The government moved quickly to dispel rumors of a fuel shortage by releasing a detailed report on current reserves.

In more casual conversation, you might use phrases like 'rumor has it' or 'I heard a rumor.' These are idiomatic ways to introduce unverified information. 'Rumor has it that they are getting married' is a common way to share a piece of gossip without taking full responsibility for its truth. Another important grammatical point is the use of prepositions. We usually hear rumors 'about' someone or something. We might also hear rumors 'of' an event, such as 'rumors of war' or 'rumors of a strike.' When rumors are moving through a group, they spread 'among' or 'through' the people. For example, 'The rumors spread through the village like a contagion.' This imagery emphasizes the uncontrollable nature of unverified information. When writing, remember that 'rumors' can also be used in the passive voice: 'It was rumored that the king had fled.' This construction is useful when the source of the information is unknown or irrelevant, focusing instead on the existence of the story itself.

Prepositional Usage: Use 'about' for people and 'of' for events or conditions. Example: 'Rumors about the manager' vs. 'Rumors of a merger.'

The manager warned the staff that spreading malicious rumors would lead to disciplinary action.

Furthermore, the word can be used to describe the atmosphere of a place. 'The air was thick with rumors' is a metaphorical way to say that everyone was talking about the same unverified news. This usage highlights how rumors can affect the mood or morale of a group. In academic writing, you might discuss the 'propagation of rumors' to describe how they travel through social networks. This involves a more technical look at the mechanics of communication. Whether you are writing a creative story, a business email, or a news article, choosing the right context for 'rumors' is essential. It allows you to navigate the delicate balance between reporting what people are saying and acknowledging that the information might not be true. By using the word effectively, you demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of the nuances of human interaction and the importance of factual accuracy.

Adjective Choice: Choosing the right adjective—like 'wild,' 'scurrilous,' or 'rampant'—can change the tone of your sentence from neutral to highly critical.

Wild rumors about a secret underground city began to circulate after the discovery of the tunnels.

She refused to listen to the rumors, preferring to wait for an official statement from the board.

The rumors were so persistent that the company's stock price dropped by five percent in a single day.

In the modern world, the word rumors is ubiquitous, appearing in contexts ranging from the highly professional to the deeply personal. One of the most common places you will encounter this word is in the news media, particularly in entertainment and sports journalism. Headlines often scream about 'rumors of a breakup' between famous celebrities or 'transfer rumors' involving high-profile athletes. In these cases, journalists use the word to report on speculation while protecting themselves from libel lawsuits; by labeling the information as a 'rumor,' they are explicitly stating that it is not yet a confirmed fact. This allows media outlets to capitalize on public interest in a story before all the details are known. Similarly, in the world of finance and business, 'market rumors' are a daily occurrence. Traders and analysts often act on rumors of impending mergers, acquisitions, or changes in government policy. In these high-stakes environments, the ability to distinguish between a credible rumor and mere 'noise' can be the difference between profit and loss.

Media and Entertainment: Tabloids and gossip websites thrive on rumors, often using them to generate clicks and engagement from a curious public.

Sports networks are currently filled with rumors about which team the star quarterback will join next season.

Another significant arena for rumors is the workplace. Office rumors, often referred to as 'water cooler talk,' can significantly impact employee morale and productivity. Whether it is a rumor about a colleague's promotion or a whisper about potential budget cuts, these unverified stories can create an atmosphere of anxiety or excitement. Managers often spend a considerable amount of time 'putting out fires' caused by rumors. In this context, the word is frequently used in HR meetings or internal communications as a warning against the spread of misinformation. Beyond the office, social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Reddit have become the ultimate breeding grounds for rumors. The viral nature of these platforms means that a rumor can reach millions of people in a matter of hours. Fact-checking organizations now play a vital role in identifying and debunking these digital rumors, which can range from harmless urban legends to dangerous medical misinformation or political propaganda.

The Digital Grapevine: Social media has accelerated the speed of rumors, making it easier for misinformation to spread across the globe in seconds.

The CEO held a town hall meeting to address the rumors of an upcoming merger that had been causing stress among the employees.

Finally, you will hear the word in historical and political discussions. 'Rumors of war' is a phrase that has been used for centuries to describe the tense period before a conflict begins. In politics, rumors are often used as a weapon to discredit opponents. 'Whisper campaigns' are organized efforts to spread damaging rumors about a candidate. Understanding where you hear this word helps you evaluate the reliability of the information you receive. Whether it is a casual comment from a friend or a breaking news alert on your phone, the word 'rumors' serves as a signal to exercise caution and seek out the truth. It is a word that reflects the complexities of human communication and our constant struggle to distinguish fact from fiction in an increasingly noisy world.

Historical Context: Historians often study rumors to understand the public mood during significant events, such as revolutions or natural disasters.

During the Great Depression, rumors of bank failures caused thousands of people to rush and withdraw their savings.

The local newspaper published an article debunking the rumors that the town's water supply was contaminated.

In the tech world, rumors about the next iPhone's features start circulating months before the official launch.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with the word rumors is confusing it with 'gossip.' While they are related, there is a subtle but important difference. 'Gossip' typically refers to personal or trivial information about other people's private lives, often with a judgmental or malicious tone. 'Rumors,' on the other hand, can cover a much broader range of topics, including business, politics, and global events. You might hear rumors about a new law being passed, but you wouldn't call that 'gossip.' Gossip is usually shared between friends or acquaintances, whereas rumors can be spread by the media or large groups of strangers. Another common error is treating 'rumors' as an uncountable noun, like 'information' or 'advice.' In English, 'rumors' is a countable noun, and its plural form is almost always used. You should say 'There are many rumors,' not 'There is much rumor.' If you are referring to a single piece of unverified information, you must use 'a rumor' or 'one rumor.'

Rumor vs. Gossip: Gossip is personal and often mean-spirited; rumors are unverified reports that can be about any subject, including serious public matters.

Incorrect: I heard much rumor about the party. Correct: I heard many rumors about the party.

Spelling is another area where mistakes occur, particularly due to the difference between American and British English. American English uses 'rumors,' while British English uses 'rumours.' While both are correct in their respective regions, it is important to be consistent within a single piece of writing. Mixing the two spellings can look unprofessional. Additionally, learners sometimes confuse 'rumors' with 'reputation.' While a rumor can affect someone's reputation, they are not the same thing. A reputation is the general opinion that people have about someone based on their past behavior, whereas a rumor is a specific, unverified story. For example, 'He has a reputation for being honest, but there are rumors that he cheated on the test.' Here, the reputation is the established belief, and the rumor is the new, unproven allegation.

Spelling Variations: Remember: 'rumors' (US) and 'rumours' (UK). Choose one and stick with it throughout your document.

She was hurt by the rumors, even though she knew they weren't true.

Finally, be careful with the verb 'rumor.' While it is common to say 'It is rumored that...' (passive voice), it is less common to use 'rumor' as an active verb in the present tense, such as 'They rumor that...' This sounds archaic or non-native. Instead, use 'People are saying...' or 'There are rumors that...' Another mistake is using 'rumors' to describe a secret. A secret is something known by only a few people who intend to keep it hidden, while a rumor is something that is being actively spread among many people. If a secret gets out and starts being discussed by everyone, it becomes a rumor. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can use the word 'rumors' with greater precision and confidence in your English communication.

Active vs. Passive: Prefer 'It is rumored that...' or 'Rumors suggest that...' over 'They rumor that...' for a more natural sound.

The rumors about the teacher's retirement turned out to be completely false.

It is a common mistake to believe every rumor you read on the internet without checking the source.

The rumors of a surprise guest at the concert created a lot of excitement among the fans.

While rumors is a versatile word, there are several synonyms and related terms that can provide more specific meaning depending on the context. 'Gossip,' as discussed, is a close relative but is more focused on personal and often trivial matters. If you want to emphasize that the information is specifically about someone's private life, 'gossip' is the better choice. 'Hearsay' is another important alternative, particularly in legal contexts. Hearsay refers to information received from other people that one cannot adequately substantiate; in a courtroom, hearsay is generally not admissible as evidence. Using 'hearsay' instead of 'rumors' gives your speech a more formal or technical tone. 'Speculation' is another useful word, especially in business or science. Speculation involves forming a theory or conjecture without firm evidence. While a rumor is a story that is being told, speculation is the act of guessing what might be true. For example, 'There is a lot of speculation about the new product's price' suggests that people are trying to guess the price, whereas 'There are rumors about the price' suggests that a specific number is already being whispered around.

Formal Alternatives: Use 'hearsay' in legal contexts and 'speculation' or 'unverified reports' in professional or academic settings.

The judge ruled that the witness's testimony was merely hearsay and could not be used to support the rumors.

In more informal or colorful language, you might encounter words like 'scuttlebutt' or 'the grapevine.' 'Scuttlebutt' is a nautical term that originally referred to the water barrel on a ship where sailors would gather to talk; today, it is a slang term for rumors or gossip. 'The grapevine' is a metaphor for an informal person-to-person means of circulating information. If you 'heard it through the grapevine,' you heard a rumor. Another interesting word is 'canard,' which refers to an unfounded or false rumor that is intentionally spread to mislead people. This is a more sophisticated and specific term than 'rumor.' 'Whispers' is also used metaphorically to describe rumors, especially those that are being shared quietly or secretly. 'There are whispers of a coup' sounds more dramatic and ominous than 'There are rumors of a coup.' Each of these words carries its own unique flavor and can help you express exactly what kind of unverified information you are talking about.

Informal and Slang: 'Scuttlebutt' and 'the grapevine' add a touch of personality to your speech, while 'whispers' adds a sense of mystery.

According to the latest scuttlebutt, the office will be moving to a new building next year, but these are just rumors for now.

Finally, consider the word 'myth' or 'urban legend' for rumors that have persisted for a long time and have become part of a culture's folklore. While a rumor is usually about a current event, an urban legend is a story that is passed down over years, often with a moral or cautionary element. Understanding these distinctions allows you to choose the most effective word for your needs. Whether you are describing a quick whisper in the hall or a long-standing cultural story, having a range of alternatives for 'rumors' will make your English more expressive and accurate. By mastering these synonyms, you can navigate the complex world of human communication with greater ease and sophistication.

Comparison Table

Rumor: General unverified story.
Gossip: Personal, often mean talk.
Hearsay: Legal term for unproven talk.
Canard: Deliberately false rumor.

The rumors of a secret treasure hidden in the basement turned out to be nothing more than an urban legend.

There were whispers of a rebellion among the troops, but the general dismissed them as baseless rumors.

I heard through the grapevine that the company is planning a major expansion, but I'm waiting for the rumors to be confirmed.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

In Roman mythology, Rumor (Fama) was a goddess depicted with many eyes, ears, and tongues to see, hear, and spread stories everywhere.

발음 가이드

UK /ˈruː.məz/

US /ˈruː.mɚz/

The stress is on the first syllable: RU-mors.

라임이 맞는 단어

bloomers consumers humors tumors groomers boomers consumers perfumers

자주 하는 실수

Pronouncing the 'o' as a strong 'o' sound (like 'more'). It should be a schwa /ə/.
Forgetting the 'z' sound at the end; it is not a sharp 's'.
Confusing the spelling with 'roomers' (people who rent rooms).
Stressing the second syllable.
Failing to make the 'u' long enough.

난이도

독해 3/5

The word is common in news and fiction, making it easy to recognize.

쓰기 4/5

Requires understanding of plural usage and common collocations.

말하기 3/5

The pronunciation is straightforward but requires the correct stress.

듣기 3/5

Easily identified in speech, though often part of fast-paced gossip.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

story true false hear say

다음에 배울 것

speculation unverified hearsay reputation scandal

고급

defamation libel propaganda dissemination canard

알아야 할 문법

Countable Nouns

You can say 'one rumor' or 'many rumors,' but not 'much rumor.'

Passive Voice with Reporting Verbs

'It is rumored that...' is a common way to report unverified info.

Prepositional Phrases

Use 'rumors about' for people and 'rumors of' for events.

Zero Article with Plural Nouns

Use 'Rumors are dangerous' when speaking in general terms.

Subject-Verb Agreement

Because 'rumors' is plural, use 'are' or 'were' (Rumors are spreading).

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수준별 예문

I heard a rumor about a new student.

J'ai entendu une rumeur sur un nouvel étudiant.

Use 'a rumor' for one story.

Is the rumor true?

Est-ce que la rumeur est vraie ?

Question form with 'is'.

There are rumors about a party.

Il y a des rumeurs sur une fête.

Use 'there are' with plural 'rumors'.

Don't listen to rumors.

N'écoute pas les rumeurs.

Imperative form.

She told me a rumor.

Elle m'a dit une rumeur.

Past tense of 'tell'.

The rumor is very funny.

La rumeur est très drôle.

Adjective 'funny' describing the rumor.

I don't like rumors.

Je n'aime pas les rumeurs.

Negative statement.

Where did you hear that rumor?

Où as-tu entendu cette rumeur ?

Question with 'where'.

Rumors are spreading in our school.

Des rumeurs circulent dans notre école.

Present continuous 'are spreading'.

He started a rumor about his boss.

Il a lancé une rumeur sur son patron.

Verb 'start' used with rumor.

I heard rumors that the shop is closing.

J'ai entendu des rumeurs selon lesquelles le magasin ferme.

Rumors followed by a 'that' clause.

The rumors were not true at all.

Les rumeurs n'étaient pas du tout vraies.

Past tense 'were' with plural 'rumors'.

Many people believe these rumors.

Beaucoup de gens croient ces rumeurs.

Verb 'believe' with 'rumors'.

Stop spreading rumors about her!

Arrête de répandre des rumeurs sur elle !

Gerund 'spreading' after 'stop'.

Are there any rumors about the exam?

Y a-t-il des rumeurs sur l'examen ?

Question with 'are there any'.

The rumor spread very fast.

La rumeur s'est propagée très vite.

Past tense of 'spread' (remains 'spread').

Rumors of a merger caused the stock price to rise.

Des rumeurs de fusion ont fait grimper le cours de l'action.

Rumors of [noun].

The celebrity denied the rumors about her divorce.

La célébrité a démenti les rumeurs sur son divorce.

Verb 'deny' is common with rumors.

Rumor has it that the concert is canceled.

Le bruit court que le concert est annulé.

Idiomatic phrase 'Rumor has it that'.

We need to quell these rumors before they cause panic.

Nous devons apaiser ces rumeurs avant qu'elles ne provoquent la panique.

Verb 'quell' means to stop something.

The rumors turned out to be completely baseless.

Les rumeurs se sont révélées être totalement infondées.

Adjective 'baseless' means without proof.

She was upset by the rumors circulating in the office.

Elle était contrariée par les rumeurs qui circulaient dans le bureau.

Participle 'circulating' modifying rumors.

There is a persistent rumor that the house is haunted.

Il y a une rumeur persistante selon laquelle la maison est hantée.

Adjective 'persistent' means continuing for a long time.

He was careful not to give credit to the rumors.

Il a fait attention à ne pas accorder de crédit aux rumeurs.

Phrase 'give credit to' means to believe.

The company moved quickly to refute the rumors of bankruptcy.

L'entreprise a agi rapidement pour réfuter les rumeurs de faillite.

Verb 'refute' is more formal than 'deny'.

Despite the rumors, the project proceeded as planned.

Malgré les rumeurs, le projet s'est déroulé comme prévu.

Prepositional phrase 'Despite the rumors'.

The rumors were fueled by a lack of official information.

Les rumeurs ont été alimentées par un manque d'informations officielles.

Passive voice 'were fueled by'.

Malicious rumors can destroy a person's career in an instant.

Des rumeurs malveillantes peuvent détruire la carrière d'une personne en un instant.

Adjective 'malicious' implies harmful intent.

The rumors gained momentum after the CEO's sudden resignation.

Les rumeurs ont pris de l'ampleur après la démission soudaine du PDG.

Phrase 'gain momentum' means to grow stronger.

He dismissed the reports as mere rumors and speculation.

Il a rejeté les rapports comme étant de simples rumeurs et spéculations.

Using 'mere' to downplay the importance.

Rumors of a scandal forced the politician to step down.

Des rumeurs de scandale ont forcé l'homme politique à démissionner.

Rumors as the subject of the sentence.

The internet has made it easier for rumors to go viral.

Internet a facilité la viralité des rumeurs.

Phrase 'go viral' means to spread rapidly.

The air was thick with rumors of an impending coup d'état.

L'air était chargé de rumeurs d'un coup d'État imminent.

Metaphorical use of 'thick with'.

She fell victim to a scurrilous rumor campaign designed to ruin her reputation.

Elle a été victime d'une campagne de rumeurs scabreuses conçue pour ruiner sa réputation.

Adjective 'scurrilous' means damaging and insulting.

The veracity of the rumors remained in question for several weeks.

La véracité des rumeurs est restée en question pendant plusieurs semaines.

Noun 'veracity' means truthfulness.

Historians often analyze rumors to gauge the public sentiment of the era.

Les historiens analysent souvent les rumeurs pour évaluer le sentiment public de l'époque.

Verb 'gauge' means to measure or estimate.

The rumors were so pervasive that even the most skeptical citizens began to believe them.

Les rumeurs étaient si envahissantes que même les citoyens les plus sceptiques ont commencé à y croire.

Adjective 'pervasive' means spreading widely throughout.

The government’s attempt to suppress the rumors only served to amplify them.

La tentative du gouvernement de supprimer les rumeurs n'a servi qu'à les amplifier.

Contrast between 'suppress' and 'amplify'.

It was a classic case of a rumor taking on a life of its own.

C'était un cas classique de rumeur prenant sa propre vie.

Idiom 'taking on a life of its own'.

The rumors were eventually substantiated by a leaked internal memo.

Les rumeurs ont finalement été étayées par une note interne divulguée.

Verb 'substantiate' means to provide evidence for.

The insidious nature of rumors lies in their ability to bypass rational scrutiny.

La nature insidieuse des rumeurs réside dans leur capacité à contourner l'examen rationnel.

Adjective 'insidious' means proceeding in a gradual, subtle way, but with harmful effects.

The narrative was built upon a foundation of half-truths and unsubstantiated rumors.

Le récit a été construit sur une base de demi-vérités et de rumeurs non fondées.

Noun 'half-truths' paired with rumors.

One must distinguish between organic rumors and those manufactured for political gain.

Il faut distinguer les rumeurs organiques de celles fabriquées à des fins politiques.

Contrast between 'organic' and 'manufactured'.

The rumors acted as a catalyst for the social unrest that followed.

Les rumeurs ont agi comme un catalyseur pour l'agitation sociale qui a suivi.

Noun 'catalyst' means something that precipitates an event.

The sheer volume of rumors made it nearly impossible to discern the objective reality.

Le volume impressionnant de rumeurs a rendu presque impossible de discerner la réalité objective.

Verb 'discern' means to perceive or recognize.

The rumors were dismissed by the elite as the idle chatter of the masses.

Les rumeurs ont été rejetées par l'élite comme le bavardage oisif des masses.

Phrase 'idle chatter' used dismissively.

Rumors often serve as a psychological coping mechanism in times of profound crisis.

Les rumeurs servent souvent de mécanisme d'adaptation psychologique en période de crise profonde.

Term 'coping mechanism' from psychology.

The spread of rumors is frequently governed by the principles of social contagion.

La propagation des rumeurs est fréquemment régie par les principes de la contagion sociale.

Term 'social contagion' refers to the spread of ideas.

자주 쓰는 조합

spread rumors

deny rumors

confirm rumors

quell rumors

persistent rumors

baseless rumors

wild rumors

rumors of war

market rumors

malicious rumors

자주 쓰는 구문

Rumor has it

— People are saying that... (used to introduce a rumor).

Rumor has it that they are getting married next month.

Hear a rumor

— To be told unverified information.

I heard a rumor that the school might close early today.

Start a rumor

— To be the person who first tells an unverified story.

It's not nice to start a rumor about someone just because you're angry.

Put an end to rumors

— To stop rumors from spreading by telling the truth.

The principal wanted to put an end to the rumors about the new rules.

Fuel rumors

— To do something that makes people believe or spread rumors more.

His silence only served to fuel the rumors of his resignation.

Ignore rumors

— To pay no attention to unverified stories.

She decided to ignore the rumors and focus on her work.

Circulate rumors

— To pass rumors from person to person.

The email was used to circulate rumors throughout the company.

Baseless rumors

— Rumors that have no foundation in truth.

The police said the rumors of a kidnapping were baseless.

Vicious rumors

— Rumors intended to cause pain or damage.

She was the target of vicious rumors during the election.

Unconfirmed rumors

— Rumors that have not yet been proven true or false.

There are unconfirmed rumors of a major breakthrough in the case.

자주 혼동되는 단어

rumors vs gossip

Gossip is specifically personal and often mean; rumors can be about anything.

rumors vs reputation

Reputation is a long-term opinion; a rumor is a specific unverified story.

rumors vs secret

A secret is hidden; a rumor is being actively shared.

관용어 및 표현

"Hear it through the grapevine"

— To hear news or rumors from someone else, rather than from an official source.

I heard it through the grapevine that you're moving to London.

informal

"Rumor mill"

— The process by which rumors are created and spread within a group.

The rumor mill has been working overtime since the news broke.

informal

"Word on the street"

— The rumors or news that are currently being discussed by people in a particular area.

The word on the street is that the restaurant is closing down.

slang/informal

"Fly around"

— To spread very quickly (used for rumors).

Rumors were flying around the office all morning.

informal

"Take it with a grain of salt"

— To not completely believe something that you hear, especially a rumor.

I heard he's quitting, but take it with a grain of salt.

informal

"Smoke and mirrors"

— Something that is meant to confuse or deceive, often involving rumors.

The whole scandal was just smoke and mirrors to hide the real problem.

informal

"A little bird told me"

— A playful way to say you heard a rumor but don't want to reveal the source.

A little bird told me that it's your birthday today!

informal

"Stir the pot"

— To intentionally cause trouble by spreading rumors or gossip.

He loves to stir the pot by telling everyone different versions of the story.

informal

"Set the record straight"

— To provide the true facts in order to stop rumors.

She called a meeting to set the record straight about the budget.

neutral

"Where there's smoke, there's fire"

— If there are rumors about something, there is usually some truth to them.

People are saying he's in trouble; where there's smoke, there's fire.

informal

혼동하기 쉬운

rumors vs roomers

Homophones (sound the same).

'Roomers' are people who rent a room; 'rumors' are unverified stories.

The roomers in the boarding house were spreading rumors about the landlord.

rumors vs humors

Similar spelling and sound.

'Humors' refers to moods or old medical theories; 'rumors' refers to stories.

The king's ill humors were the subject of many rumors.

rumors vs reports

Both involve sharing information.

Reports are usually official or based on observation; rumors are unverified.

The official reports contradicted the rumors circulating in the streets.

rumors vs hearsay

Similar meaning.

'Hearsay' is a formal/legal term; 'rumors' is the everyday term.

His testimony was rejected as hearsay, based only on rumors.

rumors vs canard

Both are unverified stories.

A 'canard' is specifically a false rumor intended to deceive.

The story about the tax hike was a malicious canard, not just a rumor.

문장 패턴

I heard a rumor.

There are rumors about [noun].

There are rumors about the new teacher.

Rumor has it that [clause].

Rumor has it that the store is closing.

[Subject] denied the rumors of [noun].

The actor denied the rumors of a breakup.

The rumors were eventually substantiated by [noun].

The rumors were eventually substantiated by the police report.

The insidious nature of the rumors led to [noun].

The insidious nature of the rumors led to widespread panic.

Rumors are spreading like wildfire.

Rumors are spreading like wildfire through the town.

To quell the rumors, [subject] [verb].

To quell the rumors, the CEO held a press conference.

어휘 가족

명사

rumor (singular)

rumormonger (a person who spreads rumors)

동사

rumor (usually passive: 'it is rumored')

형용사

rumored (unverified, based on rumors)

사용법

frequency

The word is very common in both spoken and written English, particularly in news and social contexts.

자주 하는 실수

I heard much rumor about the boss. → I heard many rumors about the boss.
Rumors is a countable noun, so you must use 'many' instead of 'much'.
They rumor that the school is closing. → It is rumored that the school is closing.
In modern English, 'rumor' is almost always used in the passive voice as a verb.
Don't believe the gossip of the merger. → Don't believe the rumors of the merger.
Gossip is usually personal; rumors is the correct word for business or general events.
The rumors was false. → The rumors were false.
Rumors is plural, so it requires the plural verb 'were'.
He spreaded the rumors. → He spread the rumors.
The past tense of 'spread' is 'spread,' not 'spreaded'.

팁

Use 'Rumor has it'

This is the most natural way to start a sentence when sharing something you heard but aren't sure is true. It sounds much better than 'I heard a rumor that...'

Learn the collocations

Don't just learn the word; learn the verbs that go with it. 'Spread,' 'deny,' 'quell,' and 'confirm' are the most important ones to know for natural-sounding English.

Check your 'u'

If you are writing for a British or Australian audience, remember to add the 'u' (rumours). If you are writing for an American audience, leave it out (rumors).

Be careful with 'vicious'

When you describe rumors as 'vicious,' you are saying they are very mean and intended to hurt someone. Use this word only when the rumors are truly harmful.

Quell rumors quickly

In a business setting, if you are a manager, it is important to 'quell' rumors as soon as they start. This prevents anxiety and keeps the team focused on their work.

Verify before sharing

Before you repeat a rumor, try to find an official source. This helps prevent the spread of misinformation, which is especially important on social media.

Count your rumors

Remember that 'rumors' is countable. You can have 'one rumor,' 'two rumors,' or 'many rumors.' Never use 'much' with rumors.

Listen for 'of' vs 'about'

We usually hear rumors 'about' a person (personal) but rumors 'of' an event (general). This small distinction can help you understand the context better.

Stress the 'RU'

Make sure the first part of the word is the loudest and longest. 'RU-mors.' This will make your pronunciation clear and easy to understand.

The Grapevine

Use the idiom 'I heard it through the grapevine' to sound more like a native speaker when talking about how you found out some unverified news.

암기하기

기억법

Think of 'RU-mors' as 'Are you (RU) sure?' because rumors are never certain.

시각적 연상

Imagine a giant ear with many small mouths whispering into it. This represents how rumors grow and travel.

Word Web

Gossip Unverified Spread Hearsay Whisper Grapevine Speculation Talk

챌린지

Try to use the word 'rumors' in three different sentences today: one about a celebrity, one about your work or school, and one using the phrase 'rumor has it'.

어원

The word comes from the Middle English 'rumour,' which was borrowed from the Old French 'rumour.' This, in turn, came from the Latin 'rumorem' (nominative 'rumor'), meaning 'noise, clamor, common talk, or hearsay.'

원래 의미: In Latin, it originally referred to a loud noise or the sound of many people talking at once.

Indo-European (Latin branch).

문화적 맥락

Be careful when using the word 'rumors' about sensitive topics like health, religion, or personal tragedy, as it can seem dismissive or disrespectful.

In the United Kingdom and the United States, rumors are a staple of office culture and high school social life.

The album 'Rumours' by Fleetwood Mac is one of the best-selling albums of all time. Shakespeare's play 'Henry IV, Part 2' features a character named Rumour who wears a coat 'painted full of tongues.' The song 'Rumour Has It' by Adele explores the pain of hearing stories about an ex-partner.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Workplace

Office rumors
Water cooler talk
Rumors of layoffs
Spread through the office

Celebrity News

Breakup rumors
Rumors of a secret wedding
Tabloid rumors
Deny the rumors

Politics

Whisper campaign
Rumors of a scandal
Political rumors
Unconfirmed reports

School/Social Life

Start a rumor
Mean rumors
Hear a rumor about a friend
Don't listen to rumors

Finance/Markets

Market rumors
Rumors of a merger
Stock-affecting rumors
Speculative rumors

대화 시작하기

"Have you heard any interesting rumors lately about the new project?"

"How do you usually react when you hear a rumor about yourself?"

"Do you think rumors are always harmful, or can they be harmless?"

"Why do you think rumors spread so much faster than the truth?"

"Have you ever started a rumor that you later regretted?"

일기 주제

Describe a time when a rumor affected your life or the life of someone you know.

Write about a famous rumor in history and how it changed the course of events.

Do you think social media companies should do more to stop the spread of rumors?

Reflect on why people feel the need to share unverified information with others.

If you could stop one specific rumor from spreading right now, what would it be and why?

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

While 'rumor' can be singular, it is much more common to use the plural 'rumors' because these stories usually circulate in groups and have many variations. For example, you would say 'There are rumors' more often than 'There is a rumor.' However, if you are referring to one specific story, 'a rumor' is perfectly correct.

Gossip is usually about the private lives of people you know and is often judgmental or mean. Rumors can be about anything—a company merger, a new law, or a celebrity's health. Rumors are unverified reports, while gossip is social chatter about people.

In British English, it is spelled 'rumours.' The American spelling is 'rumors.' Both are correct, but you should choose one based on your audience and be consistent throughout your writing.

Yes, but it is almost always used in the passive voice, such as 'It is rumored that...' or 'He is rumored to be...' Using it as an active verb like 'They rumor that...' is very rare and sounds unnatural in modern English.

It is often negative because it implies the information might be false or harmful. However, it can be neutral, such as 'rumors of a surprise party.' The context and the adjectives used with it (like 'vicious' vs. 'exciting') determine the tone.

It is an idiomatic way to say 'People are saying that...' or 'I heard that...' It's a common way to introduce unverified information without claiming it is definitely true. For example: 'Rumor has it that the boss is retiring.'

The best way to stop rumors is to 'quell' them by providing the actual facts or an official statement. This is often called 'setting the record straight.' Once the truth is known, the rumor usually dies out.

'Fake news' is a modern term for rumors or 'canards' that are intentionally created and spread, often online, to mislead people. While all fake news is based on rumors, not all rumors are intentionally fake; some are just misunderstandings.

Baseless rumors are stories that have absolutely no foundation in truth or evidence. They are completely made up. When someone calls a rumor 'baseless,' they are saying it is 100% false.

Psychologists say people spread rumors to feel important, to bond with others, or to try and make sense of an uncertain situation. It is a natural, though sometimes harmful, human behavior.

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