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Groundless Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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groundless

[ˈɡraʊndlɪs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

without foundation

Having no basis in reason or fact; unfounded.

Synonyms

baseless, unfounded, unsubstantiated.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
groundless

When something has no basis in facts or reality, often used in legal or formal contexts.

  • The accusations against him were groundless
baseless

Used to describe claims or assumptions that lack any foundation or support, often in written or formal communication.

  • Her fears were baseless, as there was no evidence to support them
unfounded

Used when referring to beliefs, rumors, or claims that are not based on any evidence, often to dismiss or discredit such claims.

  • The rumors about their breakup are completely unfounded
unsubstantiated

When something lacks proof or evidence, usually seen in legal, academic, or investigative settings.

  • The report was filled with unsubstantiated allegations

Examples of usage

  • It was a groundless accusation with no evidence to support it.
  • The claims of the conspiracy theorists were completely groundless.
Context #2 | Adjective

unreasonable

Not based on good sense or sound judgment; irrational.

Synonyms

absurd, illogical, senseless.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
groundless

Often used to describe claims or accusations that have no basis in evidence or reality.

  • His fears about the new project are completely groundless.
  • The lawsuit was dismissed for being groundless.
illogical

Used to describe reasoning or arguments that do not make sense or follow logical principles.

  • His conclusion is illogical based on the provided data.
  • It's illogical to assume that just because it happened once, it will happen again.
senseless

Typically used to describe actions or behaviors that lack purpose or reason, often carrying a negative connotation.

  • The act of vandalism was completely senseless.
  • It's senseless to argue over something so trivial.
absurd

Used to describe something that is ridiculously unreasonable or contrary to common sense.

  • The idea that the Earth is flat is absurd.
  • Her explanation for being late was absurd.

Examples of usage

  • Her groundless fears prevented her from enjoying life to the fullest.
  • The decision to cancel the event seemed groundless to many attendees.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Groundless beliefs can stem from cognitive biases, where people see patterns or truths without evidence.
  • In psychology, developing ideas without foundation can lead to conspiracy theories.
  • Challenging groundless beliefs often requires critical thinking and emotional resilience.

Literature

  • In literature, characters may face accusations or judgments that are groundless, enhancing themes of injustice.
  • Groundless rumors can propel plots in mystery novels, creating suspense and conflict.
  • Poets sometimes explore the idea of groundlessness to signify existential feelings of insecurity or uncertainty.

Science

  • Groundless claims in scientific fields can lead to misinformation, affecting public perception of important issues.
  • The scientific method is designed to prevent groundless claims by emphasizing evidence and reproducibility.
  • In environmental science, groundless fears about technology can hinder progress if not based on sound research.

Pop Culture

  • Reality television often showcases groundless drama, where conflicts arise from unfounded accusations.
  • Social media can quickly spread groundless rumors, impacting public opinion and personal reputations.
  • Movies often depict protagonists overcoming groundless fears or doubts, leading to character development.

Origin of 'groundless'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from combining 'ground,' meaning a basis or foundation, and 'less,' which means without.
  • It was first used in English during the early 17th century to describe statements that lack support.
  • In legal contexts, it can describe claims that have no factual basis for being made.

The word 'groundless' originated from the combination of 'ground' and 'less' in the late 16th century. It reflects the idea of lacking a solid foundation or support. Over the years, 'groundless' has been used to describe things that are without basis or reason, contributing to its current meaning.

See also: background, ground, groundbreaker, groundbreakers, groundbreaking, grounded, grounding, groundlessly, groundling, grounds, groundskeeper, groundskeeping, groundsman, groundwork, underground.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,396, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.