Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Based on sound reasoning or evidence: Having a solid, logical, or factual basis; justified and not arbitrary.
   • Valid or legitimate: Describing a belief, suspicion, claim, or argument that is supported by good reasons or proof.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • The journalist's well-founded report exposed the corruption.
  • Her concerns about the project's safety were well-founded.
  • The court dismissed the case because the accusations were not well-founded.

Advanced Usage

• "well-founded in fact": Emphasizing that the basis is specifically factual evidence.
  • The theory is well-founded in fact, not just speculation.
• "well-founded belief": A conviction or opinion held with good reason.
  • He acted out of a well-founded belief that his life was in danger.

Variants and Related Words

• Well-grounded (adj): Often used interchangeably with "well-founded," meaning based on good evidence or thorough training.
  • She is a well-grounded scholar in ancient history.
• Foundation (n): The basis or groundwork upon which something is built, related conceptually.
  • The argument has a solid foundation.

Synonyms

• Justified: Having a good reason for being done or believed.
• Valid: Sound, just, and well-grounded.
• Substantiated: Supported with proof or evidence.
• Legitimate: Conforming to the law or rules; able to be defended with logic or reasoning.

Antonyms

• Unfounded: Having no foundation in fact; baseless.
• Groundless: Without any good reason or justification.
• Unsubstantiated: Not supported or proven by evidence.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "On solid ground": In a position or situation supported by strong evidence or reasoning, similar in meaning to "well-founded."
  • With this new data, our hypothesis is on solid ground.
• "Stand up to scrutiny": To remain valid or well-founded when examined closely.
  • A well-founded argument will stand up to scrutiny.

Adjective

1. based on sound reasoning or evidence
   • well-founded suspicions