fact-checking
/fækt ˈtʃɛkɪŋ/
NOUN
1. Investigation of factual accuracy
The process of investigating information, statements, or claims to determine whether their stated facts are valid, accurate, and truthful.
1.1. Journalism and media verification
Used to describe the examination of news articles, reports, and published information to establish the accuracy and reliability of their factual claims.
Synonyms
- verification
- checking
- investigation
- examination
- scrutiny
- validation
Examples
- Fact-checking is an essential step in journalistic integrity.
- The team spent hours diligently fact-checking the details before publishing the report.
- The public appreciates the transparency that comes with rigorous fact-checking in media.
Related Words
1.2. Claims and information assessment
Used when examining statements, public claims, or information circulating online to determine whether they are supported by reliable evidence and represent the truth.
Synonyms
- verification
- checking
- validation
- confirmation
- examination
- scrutiny
Examples
- Online platforms have introduced tools for user-friendly fact-checking of news articles.
- Before sharing information, responsible individuals engage in thorough fact-checking to avoid spreading misinformation.
Related Words
VERB
2. Verifying factual accuracy
The act of examining specific information, statements, or claims against reliable evidence to establish whether they are factually correct.
2.1. Verifying information and statements
Used when checking the truthfulness and accuracy of information, claims, or statements by comparing them with trustworthy sources and established evidence.
Synonyms
- verifying
- checking
- validating
- confirming
- substantiating
- authenticating
Examples
- The editorial team is fact-checking every statement before publishing the article.
- Researchers spent several days fact-checking the information in the report.
- The organization is committed to fact-checking public claims using reliable evidence.
Related Words
- investigating
- examining
- researching
- correcting
- editing
- reviewing
- source checking