well-founded

American  

[wel-foun-did] / ˈwɛlˈfaʊn dɪd /

adjective

1. having a foundation in fact; based on good reasons, information, etc..

   well-founded suspicions.

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well-founded British  

adjective

1. having good grounds

   well-founded rumours

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Etymology

Origin of well-founded

Middle English word dating back to 1325–75

Example Sentences

To be eligible for asylum, a non-citizen had to demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution in their home country due to their race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.

From Los Angeles Times

It encapsulates the well-founded belief that starting a war is likely to create unforeseen evils greater than the evil of the status quo.

From Salon

My working theory is that they tap into audiences with a preexisting suspicion that the world is wicked — they prove paranoia to be well-founded.

From Los Angeles Times

But when accommodation expands without clear boundaries or meaningful verification, its credibility erodes and skepticism grows about even well-founded uses.

From The Wall Street Journal

“We saw caution on China and on U.S. tariffs for 2026, and it appears those concerns were well-founded.”

From The Wall Street Journal