Word
alleged
Phoneticsal·leged, stress on the second syllable
US/əˈɫɛdʒd/
UK/ɐlˈɛdʒd/
Definition
adj. used to describe a crime or a fact that people say is true, even though there is no proof yet.
adj. denoting a claim or action that is asserted without proof; frequently used in legal and journalistic contexts to avoid defamation.
Examples
“The alleged thief was caught on camera.”
“Police are investigating the alleged theft of several high-value paintings from the gallery last night.”
“While the alleged perpetrator remains in custody, the prosecution must still present forensic evidence to substantiate the claims made by the primary witness during the initial hearing.”
Examples
simple
“The alleged thief was caught on camera.”
contextual
“Police are investigating the alleged theft of several high-value paintings from the gallery last night.”
complex
“While the alleged perpetrator remains in custody, the prosecution must still present forensic evidence to substantiate the claims made by the primary witness during the initial hearing.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “alleged” in context.
Usage
Usually placed before the noun it describes.
Teaching tip
This is a vital word for news reporting to avoid accusing someone of a crime before a court decides they are guilty.
Pitfall
The alleged of the crime was arrested.
The alleged criminal was arrested.
Alleged is an adjective and must describe a noun; it cannot be used as a noun itself.
Real-World Examples
“He said that the alleged US support included the supply of intelligence.” “Icac is investigating whether McInerney arranged and approved illegal donations from the governing body for 600 Catholic schools to support alleged branch stacking efforts of the Christian factional group the Reformers.” “Colon alleged during the fight that Williams had repeatedly struck him on the back of the head, an illegal punch in boxing known as “rabbit punches”.” “The demonstrators are demanding an investigation by the CBI, India’s premier investigative force, saying only an independent inquiry can get to the bottom of alleged wrongdoing in government recruitment examinations.” Synonyms
Antonyms
Word family
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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