debunking
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪˈbʌŋkɪŋ/
KK: /dɪˈbʌŋkɪŋ/
noun
Definition
The act of proving that something is not true or is a lie.
Example
The scientist focused on the debunking of popular myths about climate change.
Conversation
Have you heard about the latest debunking of that conspiracy theory?
Yeah, I saw that article! It really makes you think about what we believe.
Exactly! I love when someone does a good job of debunking false claims.
Same here! It’s important to get to the truth.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
disproving
refutation
exposing
Antonyms
confirming
validating
upholding
verb
Definition
To expose the falseness or hollowness of a myth, idea, or belief.
Example
The scientist is debunking the popular myth about the health benefits of that supplement.
Tense Forms
Past: debunked
Past Participle: debunked
Conversation
Did you see that video about debunking common myths?
Yeah, it was really interesting!
I love how they focus on debunking things we often believe without question.
Root Explanation
Debunking is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "bunk" (from the slang term meaning to deceive or nonsense). The word refers to the act of exposing or removing falsehoods or misconceptions, essentially taking down the nonsense.
Memory Tip
Think of 'taking down' ('de-') something that is 'nonsense' ('bunk') — that's why debunking means exposing falsehoods.
Visually Confused Words
unking