What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rumour
Example
There is a rumour going around that the company is going bankrupt. [rumour: noun]
Example
She heard a rumour that her ex-boyfriend was getting married. [rumour: noun]
gossip
Example
The office gossip said that the boss was having an affair with his secretary. [gossip: noun]
Example
She gossiped with her friends about the latest celebrity scandal. [gossiped: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gossip is more commonly used than rumour in everyday language. Gossip is often associated with entertainment and socializing, while rumour is more commonly used in news and media contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between rumour and gossip?
Rumour is generally considered more formal than gossip, which is often associated with casual conversation and socializing.
