What is the difference between purported and supposed?

Definitions

purported

- Used to describe something that is claimed or believed to be true, but its authenticity is uncertain.

- Referring to something that is rumored or alleged to have happened, but there is no concrete evidence to support it.

- Talking about something that is said to be true, but there are doubts about its accuracy or validity.

supposed

- Used to describe something that is expected or required to happen or be true.

- Referring to something that is assumed or believed to be true without concrete evidence.

- Talking about something that is intended or planned to happen, but it may not have occurred yet.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both words refer to something that may or may not be true.
• 2. Both words can be used to express uncertainty or doubt.
• 3. Both words can be used to describe something that is not confirmed or verified.

What is the difference?

• 1. Usage: Purported is used to describe something that is claimed or believed to be true, but there is no concrete evidence to support it. Supposed is used to describe something that is expected or required to happen or be true.
• 2. Connotation: Purported has a negative connotation, implying that the authenticity of the claim is questionable. Supposed has a neutral or positive connotation, implying that the expectation or assumption is reasonable or necessary.
• 3. Certainty: Purported implies a higher degree of uncertainty than supposed.
• 4. Evidence: Purported suggests that there is no concrete evidence to support the claim, while supposed suggests that there may be some evidence or reason to believe in the assumption.
• 5. Formality: Purported is more formal than supposed.

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Remember this!

Purported and supposed are synonyms that both describe something that may or may not be true. However, purported is used to describe something that is claimed or believed to be true, but there is no concrete evidence to support it, while supposed is used to describe something that is expected or required to happen or be true. Additionally, purported has a negative connotation and is more formal than supposed.