What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
putative
Example
The putative cause of the disease is still under investigation. [putative: adjective]
Example
The putative father of the child has not been confirmed. [putative: adjective]
alleged
Example
The alleged thief was caught on camera. [alleged: adjective]
Example
She is alleged to have stolen the money from the company. [alleged: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Alleged is more commonly used than putative in everyday language, especially in news and legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between putative and alleged?
Putative is more formal than alleged, and is often used in academic or scientific writing to describe theories or hypotheses.
