Allege

Allege is a verb meaning to claim something as true, especially without proving it. It is used to present an assertion as something that has been stated by someone else or that is under dispute. The term signals that the speaker is reporting an assertion rather than declaring a fact.

Etymology and forms: The verb derives from Old French allegier or allegier, from Latin allegare, meaning to bring forward as evidence or to claim. Related forms include alleged (adjective), allegedly (adverb), and allegation (noun) for a claimed assertion.

Usage: In journalism, law, and official reporting, to allege is to indicate that a claim has been made rather than established as fact. The word is often paired with adjectives such as alleged to avoid pronouncing guilt or certainty. For example: "The company allegedly violated the regulation" and "The allegations of misconduct were investigated." In legal filings, allegations refer to asserted facts that must be proven through evidence in court.

Tone and nuance: Because allege implies doubt or pending verification, overuse can convey evasiveness or diminish credibility. It is commonly favored when describing statements by others or contested matters. When evidence exists or has been established, alternatives such as state, claim, or prove may be more appropriate. Conversely, it remains appropriate to use allege when reporting unproven claims in a neutral or descriptive manner.

See also: Assert, claim, allegation, accusation, allegedly.