noun information that is not based on personal knowledge or observation, but rather on what someone else has said
adjective related to or consisting of hearsay
In legal contexts, hearsay refers to information received from someone who heard about an event or statement secondhand, rather than directly experiencing or witnessing it.
In journalism, hearsay is often avoided as a source of information, as it can be unreliable and lack credibility.
In gossip or informal conversations, hearsay may be common as people pass on information they have heard without verifying its accuracy.
In courtrooms, hearsay evidence is often not admissible unless certain exceptions apply.
Within rumor mills or gossip circles, hearsay can spread quickly and influence public perception without solid evidence.
In investigations, hearsay evidence may be considered less reliable than direct testimony or physical evidence.
In legal writing, a writer may need to analyze and present hearsay evidence in a clear and concise manner.
A psychologist may need to consider hearsay statements when conducting evaluations or assessments of individuals.
Lawyers often need to navigate rules of evidence regarding hearsay when presenting cases in court.
Journalists may encounter hearsay when reporting on events or interviews, and must assess the credibility of such information.
Police officers may need to determine the reliability of hearsay information when investigating a crime.