Claim Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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claim

[kleษชm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

legal

A demand for something as rightful or due.

Synonyms

demand, petition, request.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
claim

Use this when you assert that something is true, often without evidence, or when you are demanding something that you believe is rightfully yours.

  • She claimed that she had seen a rare bird.
  • He filed a claim for damages.
demand

This is appropriate when you need something urgently or are making a very firm request. It often has a sense of insistence and can be seen as aggressive.

  • The workers are demanding better working conditions.
  • He demanded an explanation from the manager.
request

This is suitable for politely asking for something. It is less forceful than 'demand' and does not carry the implication of a right as with 'claim'.

  • May I request a copy of that document?
  • They requested that all employees wear their ID badges.
petition

This is used when formally asking for something, typically in writing, and often in a legal or official context. It usually involves collecting signatures.

  • The community created a petition to stop the new construction project.
  • She signed a petition for climate change action.

Examples of usage

  • The company received a claim for compensation from the injured worker.
  • The insurance company is investigating the validity of the claim.
Context #2 | Verb

legal

To state that something is true, typically without providing evidence or proof.

Synonyms

allege, assert, declare.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
claim

Use 'claim' when someone states something as a fact, often without providing proof. It can be neutral or sometimes carry a connotation of skepticism.

  • He claims to have seen a UFO.
  • They claim that their product is the best on the market.
assert

Use 'assert' when someone states something confidently and forcefully as a fact. It conveys a sense of strong belief or insistence.

  • She asserted her right to speak.
  • They assert that their plan will work.
allege

Use 'allege' when someone accuses or states something, but there is no proof and often it is used in legal or formal contexts. This word typically carries a negative connotation.

  • The man was alleged to have committed the crime.
  • She allegedly took the money without permission.
declare

Use 'declare' when someone makes an official or formal statement, often publicly. It has a more formal and authoritative tone.

  • The company declared bankruptcy.
  • The president declared a state of emergency.

Examples of usage

  • He claimed that he was not present at the scene of the crime.
  • She claimed ownership of the lost ring.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Law

  • In legal terms, making a claim usually involves asserting a right to something, like property or compensation.
  • A claim can be seen in various contexts, including insurance, where a person formally requests payment for a loss.

Psychology

  • Claims can be influenced by cognitive biases, affecting how and what people assert based on their perceptions.
  • The way someone makes a claim can reflect their self-esteem and confidence levels in social situations.

Pop Culture

  • In sports, athletes often make bold claims about their abilities, which can generate excitement and anticipation among fans.
  • Reality TV shows frequently revolve around claims made by contestants, creating drama and narrative tension.

Literature

  • Writers often make claims in their works, using arguments to persuade readers toward a particular viewpoint or theme.
  • In poetry, a claim may express an emotion or idea, inviting readers to engage with the deeper meaning behind the words.

Origin of 'claim'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'clamare', which means 'to shout' or 'to call out'.
  • It evolved through Old French 'clame', meaning to call upon, which reflects the assertion of ownership or rights.

The word 'claim' originated from the Middle English word 'claime', which came from the Old French word 'clamer', meaning 'to call, claim'. The concept of making a claim has been present in legal systems for centuries, as individuals and organizations seek to assert their rights to property, compensation, or other entitlements.


See also: acclaim, claimable, claimant, claimed, claims, counterclaim, disclaim, disclaimer, exclaim, proclaim, reclaim, unclaimed.

Word Frequency Rank

At #642 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.