Definition

Describing something that is claimed to be true or to have happened, but not yet proven or confirmed.

Example

The alleged thief was caught on camera, but he denied the accusations.

Conversation

Did you hear about the alleged scandal at the university?

Yeah, it's all over the news right now.

I wonder if those claims will ever be proven true or just remain alleged rumors.

It's hard to say, but it definitely has everyone talking.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Alleged → It is formed from "al-" (a variant of "ad-", meaning to) and "legere" (meaning to read or gather). The word originally referred to something that is claimed or asserted, as if it were read or presented as a fact, but not yet proven.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'claimed' ('al-') to be true, as if it has been 'gathered' ('legere') as a fact, but not yet confirmed.

Visually Confused Words