allegation

An allegation is a statement that someone has engaged in improper or illegal conduct, presented as fact but not yet proven. Allegations arise in many settings—legal proceedings, journalism, corporate governance, sports, and everyday disputes—and may concern actions, omissions, or statements.

In legal contexts, an allegation appears in pleadings, investigations, or charging documents and is not evidence of guilt or liability by itself. A formal charge, indictment, or finding of misconduct is typically separate from the underlying allegation and requires proof according to the applicable standard of proof.

In journalism and public discourse, reporting on allegations requires verification and caution to avoid defamation. News outlets often mark allegations as unproven and use qualifiers such as alleged, according to officials, or reported by sources until independent findings establish a conclusion.

Investigations of allegations may result in substantiation, dismissal, or other outcomes. Standards of proof vary by jurisdiction and context—criminal cases require proof beyond a reasonable doubt; civil matters often rely on a balance of probabilities. Regardless, an allegation does not determine guilt or liability and many systems uphold a presumption of innocence.

Allegations can have significant consequences for reputations, careers, and institutions. Responsible handling involves thorough inquiry, due process, and clear communication of results, while minimizing harm to those not proven to be at fault.