lallégation

L’allégation, or allegation in English, is a claim or assertion presented as fact by a person or institution. It is a statement that may or may not be supported by evidence and is commonly encountered in legal pleadings, journalism, politics, and regulatory contexts. The term emphasizes that the truth of the assertion has yet to be established rather than confirming it as a proven fact.

Etymology and usage: the French noun allégation derives from Latin allegatio, from allegare meaning to bring forward or to cite. In English, allegation similarly refers to a claim that requires proof within a given procedure or debate. The related verb alleger in French corresponds to to allege or to cite as basis for a claim; in English one speaks of alleging something and of something allegedly being true.

Legal context: in legal proceedings, an allegation is a factual assertion made by a party in pleadings or motions. It functions as a starting point for evidence and argument, and it can be challenged or refined through discovery, testimony, and trials. The burden of proving an allegation typically rests on the party making it, and standards of proof (such as preponderance of the evidence or beyond a reasonable doubt) apply.

Media and ethical context: in journalism and public discourse, allegations must be verified and attributed to credible sources. Responsible reporting distinguishes between allegations and established facts, and readers are often reminded that allegations, quoted as “alleged,” are claims that require corroboration. Improper handling can raise defamation concerns.

Distinctions: an allegation is a claim to be proven; an accusation or charge often implies guilt or responsibility. In English, the adverb allegedly is used to indicate that something is claimed but not proven.