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
I heard a rumour that they are getting married next month. [rumour: noun]
speculation
Example
There is a lot of speculation about who will win the election. [speculation: noun]
Example
The media is speculating that the company will launch a new product soon. [speculating: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rumour is more commonly used in everyday language than speculation. Rumour is often associated with gossip and entertainment, while speculation is more formal and used in professional or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between rumour and speculation?
Speculation is more formal and can be used in professional or academic contexts, while rumour is more informal and associated with gossip or entertainment.
