English Reference
verb · adjective

asserted

v. · adj.
US /əˈsɝtɪd/ UK /ɐsˈɜːtɪd/ as·sert·ed

  1. 01 C1 Advanced AcademicFormal

    v.to say something very clearly and firmly so that people believe you.

    v.to state a fact or belief confidently and forcefully. Transitive; often takes a 'that' clause or a direct object.

    Simple

    The scientist asserted that her new findings would change how we think about space.

    In context

    The report asserted that the economic downturn was inevitable, though many independent analysts questioned the data used to reach that conclusion.

    Usage

    Commonly followed by a 'that' clause to introduce the claim being made.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal

    v.to use your power, authority, or rights so that people notice them.

    v.to cause others to recognise one's authority or a right by using it in a determined way. Often used reflexively as 'assert oneself'.

    Simple

    The new manager asserted his authority by changing the office rules on his first day.

    In context

    The small nation sought to assert its sovereignty by issuing its own currency and establishing independent trade agreements.

    Usage

    Often used with abstract nouns like 'authority', 'rights', 'control', or 'independence'.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced FormalAcademic

    adj.something that has been stated as a fact but might not be true yet.

    adj.stated or declared as a fact, typically without providing supporting evidence. Functions as a participial adjective.

    Simple

    The asserted benefits of the new diet have not been tested by doctors yet.

    In context

    The asserted connection between the two events remains speculative until the forensic team completes its investigation.

Donald Trump’s administration has increasingly asserted its leadership over the region and recently designated Brazil’s two biggest organised crime groups as terrorist organisations.

The Guardian· 16 Aug 2026

Pirro asserted that the Interior Department had provided her office “less than fulsome information at the outset of the case”, and she blamed the damage on faulty repairs to the Reflecting Pool.

Al Jazeera· 14 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated