Reportedly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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reportedly

[rɪˈpɔːtɪdli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in news or media reports

According to what is said or reported by someone, but not necessarily true or proven

Synonyms

allegedly, apparently, supposedly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reportedly

Use when referring to information that has been shared through a report or news outlet, but is not confirmed by a primary source.

  • The new policy has reportedly increased productivity among employees.
  • The actor was reportedly seen at the airport early this morning.
allegedly

Typically used in legal or formal contexts to indicate that something is claimed to have happened, often without proof and carrying some doubt.

  • He allegedly stole the car from the parking lot.
  • The company is allegedly involved in tax evasion.
supposedly

Indicates that something is believed or claimed to be true, but there is some doubt or disbelief. It often carries a slightly skeptical or dismissive tone.

  • He is supposedly the best chef in town.
  • Supposedly, the package will arrive by tomorrow.
apparently

Used when something seems true based on the available evidence or observation, though it may not be fully confirmed.

  • Apparently, the meeting has been canceled.
  • She didn’t show up for the interview, apparently due to illness.

Examples of usage

  • He is reportedly the highest-paid actor in Hollywood.
  • The company will reportedly announce a new product next month.
Context #2 | Adverb

hearsay or rumor

Used to indicate that the information being given is based on rumor or unofficial sources

Synonyms

ostensibly, purportedly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reportedly

Use this word when referring to something that has been reported by others, especially in news or media, but has not been confirmed.

  • The movie star is reportedly dating a famous athlete.
  • Reportedly, the company is planning to expand its operations to Asia.
purportedly

Use this word to indicate that something is claimed or believed to be true but it's not verified and might be doubtful.

  • The book was purportedly written by a famous author, but some experts doubt its authenticity.
  • He is purportedly the heir to a large fortune, though no one has seen any proof.
ostensibly

This word is best used when something appears to be true but there is a hidden reason or the appearance might be deceptive.

  • He visited the town ostensibly to see old friends, but he was actually there for a business meeting.
  • The meeting was ostensibly about budget cuts, but many believe the real reason was to discuss personnel changes.

Examples of usage

  • They reportedly broke up last week, but it's not confirmed yet.

Translations

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

Origin of 'reportedly'

The word 'reportedly' is derived from the verb 'report', which comes from Old French 'reporter', meaning 'to carry back'. The adverb 'reportedly' gained popularity in the 20th century with the rise of mass media and news reporting, often used to indicate information that may not be fully verified. It has become a common term in journalism and everyday language to convey information from sources that are not officially confirmed.


See also: misreport, report, reporter, reporting.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,835, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.