Allegations: meaning, definitions and examples
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allegations
[ˌalɪˈɡeɪʃənz ]
Definitions
legal
A claim or assertion that someone has done something illegal or wrong, typically made without proof.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| allegations |
This word is commonly used in legal or formal situations where someone is saying that another person has done something wrong, often without immediate proof. It can be less strong than accusations because it suggests that something might be true but is not yet proven.
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| accusations |
Accusations are often more serious and straightforward claims that someone has done something wrong. They usually imply that the speaker believes the wrongdoing has definitely occurred.
|
| charges |
This term is usually used in legal contexts and refers to formal statements saying that someone is accused of a crime. It is stronger and more official than allegations and accusations.
|
| claims |
Claims can be used in a wide range of contexts, not just legal ones. They refer to saying that something is true, often without providing proof. It's a more neutral word compared to the others and can be positive or negative.
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Examples of usage
- He consistently denied the allegations of corruption.
- The company is facing allegations of fraud and misconduct.
- The allegations against him were never proven in court.
general
Statements made without providing proof, often damaging to someone's reputation.
Synonyms
accusations, assertions, insinuations.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| allegations |
Used when someone makes a statement or assertion, typically without proof, often implying wrongdoing or misconduct.
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| accusations |
Used when someone is directly claiming that another person has done something wrong or illegal. Often used in a legal or confrontational context.
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| insinuations |
Used when someone hints or suggests something, often negative, indirectly. It implies a more subtle or sly approach and can carry a negative connotation.
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| assertions |
Used for strong statements or declarations, often presented as facts, but not necessarily proven. Can be used in both positive and neutral contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The allegations in the article were damaging to her career.
- He was the subject of false allegations by his former colleagues.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from Latin 'allegare', meaning to 'assert' or 'to send forth' claims.
- It entered the English language in the late Middle Ages, highlighting its long association with legal contexts.
- The use of the term has evolved, especially in legal terminologies where it signifies unproven claims.
Law
- In legal contexts, allegations are often the starting point of investigations, requiring evidence to support or refute them.
- Defamation laws often relate to how allegations are communicated, especially when they damage a person's reputation.
- Allegations can lead to serious consequences, including lawsuits, if proven harmful to an individual or entity.
Media and Pop Culture
- Allegations frequently make headlines, especially in high-profile cases involving celebrities or politicians.
- The phrase 'without allegations' is often used in media to denote a lack of substantial claims in controversies.
- Reality television often showcases allegations, driving drama and viewer engagement in plot lines.
Psychology
- The belief in an allegation can impact public perception before any evidence is available, demonstrating herd behavior.
- When someone makes an allegation, it can evoke strong emotional responses, ranging from anger to sympathy in observers.
- Cognitive biases can affect how people perceive allegations, leading them to accept claims based on their prior beliefs.
Social Issues
- Allegations regarding social issues like harassment or discrimination have led to movements promoting accountability and transparency.
- In many communities, the handling of allegations against public figures can influence social trust and engagement.
- False allegations can undermine serious cases, posing challenges for social justice movements.
Translations
Translations of the word "allegations" in other languages:
🇵🇹 alegações
🇮🇳 आरोप
🇩🇪 Behauptungen
🇮🇩 tuduhan
🇺🇦 звинувачення
🇵🇱 zarzuty
🇯🇵 申し立て
🇫🇷 allégations
🇪🇸 alegaciones
🇹🇷 iddialar
🇰🇷 혐의
🇸🇦 مزاعم
🇨🇿 obvinění
🇸🇰 obvinenia
🇨🇳 指控
🇸🇮 obtožbe
🇮🇸 ásakanir
🇰🇿 айыптаулар
🇬🇪 ბრალდებები
🇦🇿 ittihamlar
🇲🇽 alegaciones