What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gossip
Example
She loves to gossip about her coworkers during lunch. [gossip: verb]
Example
The gossip around town is that they're getting a divorce. [gossip: noun]
rumor
Example
There's a rumor going around that the company is going bankrupt. [rumor: noun]
Example
I heard a rumor that they're dating, but I don't know if it's true. [rumor: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gossip is more commonly used than rumor in everyday language. Gossip is a familiar term that is often associated with casual conversation or socializing, while rumor is more likely to be used in specific contexts, such as news or politics.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between gossip and rumor?
Both gossip and rumor are generally informal words that are used in casual conversation. However, rumor may be used in more formal contexts, such as journalism or legal proceedings, where accuracy and verification are important.
