根拠

• Reading: こんきょ
• Romaji: konkyo
• Kanji breakdown: 根 (kon/ne) — root; 拠 (kyo/ko) — base, foothold
• Pronunciation: /ko.ɴ.kjo/

Meaning

Basis; grounds; foundation; evidence supporting a claim.

A noun referring to the factual or logical basis for an argument, decision, or belief. Frequently used in academic, legal, and journalistic contexts. Common collocations include 根拠がある (to have grounds), 根拠のない (groundless), and 根拠に基づく (based on evidence).

Examples

1. その主張には科学的な根拠がある。 There is a scientific basis for that claim.
2. 根拠のない噂を広めるべきではない。 You shouldn't spread rumors that have no basis.
3. 何を根拠にそう判断したのですか。 On what grounds did you make that judgment?

Usage Guide

Context: academic, debate, journalism

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 根 (kon, root) + 拠 (kyo, base/foothold). Literally 'root footing,' conveying the idea of a firm foundation upon which something stands.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal