Translation guide
In Japanese, a groundless rumour is commonly expressed with words like 噂 (うわさ) or デマ, often qualified by adjectives meaning 'baseless' or 'unfounded'. The most natural way to say it depends on context: casual conversation, news, or formal writing.
Express that a rumour or gossip has no basis in fact, in everyday conversation.
A common set phrase meaning 'a rumour without root or leaf', i.e., completely groundless. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
それは根も葉もない噂だよ。
That's a groundless rumour.
Please don't believe groundless rumours.
Literally 'rumour without basis'. Slightly more formal than 根も葉もない, suitable for news or serious discussion.
根拠のない噂が広まっている。
Groundless rumours are spreading.
Short for デマゴギー (demagogy), meaning false rumour or misinformation, often spread maliciously. Common in news and social media.
あれはただのデマだ。
That's just a groundless rumour.
デマに惑わされないで。
Don't be misled by groundless rumours.
A formal expression meaning 'rumour completely unfounded in fact'. Used in official statements or written denials.
その報道は事実無根の噂に過ぎません。
That report is nothing but a groundless rumour.
Emphasize that the rumour is deliberately false or misleading, often in media contexts.
A set phrase for baseless rumours or wild gossip, often used in formal warnings or news about social unrest.
流言飛語に惑わされないように。
Don't be swayed by groundless rumours.
Rumour or hearsay, often with a negative connotation of being unverified. Used in phrases like 風評被害 (reputational damage from rumours).
Slang for false information or hoax, often used in journalism or online. Literally 'fake material'.
その記事はガセネタだった。
That article was a groundless rumour.
噂 (うわさ) is a neutral word for rumour or gossip; it becomes groundless when modified. デマ implies intentional falsehood or misinformation. 流言飛語 is a strong, formal term for wild, baseless rumours that can cause social disruption.
Avoid directly translating 'groundless rumour' as 根拠のない噂 in very casual speech; it can sound stiff. Use 根も葉もない噂 or simply デマ for natural effect.
それ、根も葉もない噂だって。
They say it's a groundless rumour.
風評によって売上が落ちた。
Sales dropped due to groundless rumours.