Allegation: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in legal or formal contexts when someone states that someone else has done something wrong, but it has not yet been proven.

• The allegation of bribery against the politician caused a major scandal
• The company is currently investigating serious allegations of workplace harassment

Often used in both formal and informal settings when someone explicitly states that another person is responsible for a wrongdoing. It can carry a negative connotation.

• He faced false accusations of theft from his colleagues
• The accusation of cheating on the exam shocked everyone

Used more generally to describe statements that someone says are true, often without immediate proof or in situations where the truth is questioned.

• She made a claim that she saw a UFO last night
• The company's claim that its product is the best on the market is under scrutiny

Commonly used in legal contexts when formal accusations are made, and it implies that there will be legal proceedings. It also has a very negative connotation.

• The police filed charges of fraud against the businessman
• He was found not guilty of all charges after a lengthy trial

Used when someone confidently states something as a fact without necessarily providing proof. It can be neutral or used in debates and discussions.

• Her assertion that climate change is an imminent threat was supported by many experts
• The scientist made an assertion that required further investigation

Used often in legal or formal contexts when referring to an accusation or charge that someone has done something wrong or illegal, typically without proof at the time it's made.

• The company denied the allegation of fraud
• The actor faced several allegations of misconduct

Used when someone states something confidently and forcefully as a fact, often without providing evidence. It can be applied in both formal and informal contexts.

• Her assertion that the project would succeed boosted the team’s morale
• He made a strong assertion about the importance of climate change action

Used to indicate a statement that something is true, typically without providing proof. It is versatile, used in both everyday and more formal contexts.

• She made a claim that she had seen a UFO
• The company claims their product is the best on the market

Used often in formal contexts such as legal situations, official statements, or important announcements. It indicates a clear and emphatic statement or announcement.

• The president made a declaration about the new policy
• The declaration of independence is a historic document