What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
allegation
Example
The allegations of corruption against the politician were never proven. [allegations: noun]
Example
She made serious allegations against her boss, but she couldn't provide any evidence. [allegations: plural noun]
assertion
Example
He made the assertion that he was innocent of the crime. [assertion: noun]
Example
She asserted that she had the necessary qualifications for the job. [asserted: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Allegation is more commonly used in news reporting and journalism, especially in the context of legal proceedings, while assertion is more commonly used in academic writing and formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between allegation and assertion?
Assertion is more formal than allegation as it implies a confident and forceful statement made with conviction and supported by evidence or facts, while allegation has a negative connotation and is often associated with informal or sensational language.
