allege
Definitions
To state or claim that something is true, typically without proof, especially of wrongdoing
（无确凿证据地）声称，指控，断言
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedFrom Latin allegare = ad- (to) + legare (to depute, dispatch, cite), the 'law/cite' branch (lex/legis), not legere 'read.' Originally 'to cite, bring forward as evidence in court' — which is why allege still carries a courtroom flavor: you put forward a claim, but it's not yet proven.
Root lect still carries 128 more wordsUsage Guide
allege almost always frames an unproven claim of wrongdoing, so it pairs with the passive 'is alleged to have' and the adverb 'allegedly.' Journalists use it to report accusations without endorsing them. Don't use it for neutral statements you believe are true.
Example Sentences
- 1.
The report alleges that several officials accepted bribes.
- 2.
She is alleged to have forged the documents.
- 3.
These are serious allegations that he firmly denies.
Easily Confused
allege vs claim vs assert: claim and assert can state anything you believe; allege specifically implies an accusation that is not yet proven and may be doubted. 'He alleges fraud' = he accuses but hasn't proven it.