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debunk

IPA

How to pronounce debunk (audio)

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Dictionary definition of debunk

To expose or prove that a claim or belief is false, exaggerated, or fraudulent.
"The article aims to debunk common misconceptions about health."

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Detailed meaning of debunk

It is often used in the context of revealing the truth behind a widely-held misconception or exposing the flaws in an argument or theory.

In journalism and media, the term debunk is often used to describe the act of fact-checking or investigating claims and exposing misinformation.

In science, the term debunk is often used to describe the act of disproving a hypothesis or theory through experimentation or observation.

In general, debunking refers to the process of investigating and evaluating information and arguments, and determining their accuracy and validity. It aims to separate the truth from false or misleading information, and to correct or expose inaccuracies or misconceptions.

In summary, Debunk refers to the act of exposing or disproving a claim or belief that is considered to be false, exaggerated, or fraudulent. It is often used in the context of revealing the truth behind a widely-held misconception or exposing the flaws in an argument or theory. It is used in journalism, media, science and in general and it aims to separate the truth from false or misleading information, and to correct or expose inaccuracies or misconceptions.

Example sentences containing debunk

1. Dedicated scientists and researchers strive to debunk pseudoscientific claims that mislead the public.
2. Their mission is to meticulously debunk the unfounded myths and misconceptions that plague society.
3. In an era of misinformation, fact-checkers play a crucial role in debunking false narratives and falsehoods.
4. Journalists and investigative reporters often delve deep into stories to expose and debunk corruption.
5. The documentary painstakingly examined historical records to debunk the long-standing conspiracy theory.
6. Debunking supernatural phenomena demands a balanced approach, separating fact from fiction.

History and etymology of debunk

The verb 'debunk' has a relatively modern etymology, emerging in the early 20th century. It is thought to be a combination of 'de-' and 'bunk.' The prefix 'de-' signifies a reversal or undoing, while 'bunk' refers to nonsense, bunkum, or fraudulent claims. Therefore, 'debunk' essentially means to reverse or expose bunkum, which perfectly encapsulates its meaning of revealing the falsehood, exaggeration, or fraudulent nature of a claim or belief. This etymology illustrates the word's primary function—to critically examine and dismantle unfounded or misleading assertions, contributing to a clearer understanding of the truth.

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Further usage examples of debunk

1. Social media platforms have become battlegrounds for debunking false information and fake news.
2. They embarked on a quest to debunk the myths surrounding ancient civilizations and relics.
3. The professor's life's work was dedicated to rigorously debunking the flawed theories of his peers.
4. Skeptics tirelessly strive to debunk extraordinary claims, seeking empirical evidence.
5. The team's efforts to debunk urban legends shed light on the origins of popular myths.
6. Debunking internet hoaxes requires vigilant fact-checking and a discerning eye.
7. Debunking conspiracy theories often involves sifting through layers of misinformation and distortion.
8. Unmasking hidden agendas and misinformation is the journalist's mission in debunking false narratives.
9. Debunking unfounded health claims is essential for public well-being and informed decision-making.
10. The documentary aimed to debunk the supernatural occurrences reported in a remote village.
11. Debunking paranormal phenomena requires rigorous scientific scrutiny and skepticism.
12. In the world of finance, uncovering fraudulent schemes is essential in debunking financial scams.
13. Their research presented compelling evidence to debunk longstanding conspiracy theories.
14. Urban legends persist, but diligent researchers continue to debunk their origins.
15. Debunking historical myths often involves revisiting primary sources and examining conflicting accounts.
16. They used forensic analysis to debunk the sensational claims made about the unsolved crime.
17. Debunking the pseudoscientific beliefs of alternative medicine requires a critical evaluation of evidence.
18. Debunking misinformation campaigns is a constant battle for those dedicated to truth and accuracy.
19. Conspiracy theories abound in the digital age, prompting a concerted effort to debunk them.
20. Skeptics employ logic and evidence to systematically debunk unfounded claims.
21. Fact-checkers rigorously investigate and debunk false statements made by public figures.
22. Debunking myths and legends is a cultural endeavor that seeks to uncover historical truths.
23. The journalist's exposé aimed to debunk the cover-up and reveal the hidden truth.

disprove,uncloak,unmask

eb68db_ddaff521090548318dd3ddf6abb48b47.mp3

disprove, confirm, validate, substantiate

challenge,confute,discredit,disparage,rebut,refute

Nuance and Precision, Curiosity and Inquiry, Discolsure and Revelation, Mystery and Mastery, Doubt and Skepticism

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