English Reference

Word

claiming

Phoneticsclaim·ing, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈkɫeɪmɪŋ/

UK/klˈeɪmɪŋ/

Definitions

01asserting a fact

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. saying that something is true, often when you cannot prove it yet.

v. asserting that something is the case, typically without providing immediate proof or evidence.

“He is claiming that he finished the work, but I haven't seen the files yet.”

“The witness is claiming to have seen the suspect near the scene, though her testimony contradicts the forensic evidence provided by the police.”

Usage

Often followed by a 'that' clause or a to-infinitive.

Antonyms

denyingdisavowing

02demanding a right

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. asking for something because you believe it belongs to you or you have a right to it.

v. formally requesting or demanding something as an entitlement or right.

“She is claiming her travel expenses after the business trip.”

“The refugees are claiming asylum in the neighbouring country, citing a well-founded fear of persecution in their homeland.”

Usage

Takes a direct object representing the entitlement or benefit.

03the act of making a claim

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun

n. the process of asking for money or a right that you are owed.

n. the formal act of asserting a right or requesting a payment, such as from an insurance company or government.

“The claiming of insurance benefits can take several weeks to process.”

“The systematic claiming of tax credits by small businesses has increased significantly since the new legislation was introduced.”

Real-World Examples

“He contacts several of the Instagram accounts and one replies, claiming to have helped "many people" and offering him advice on how to cross for hundreds of pounds.”
BBC News 14 Aug 2026
“Linus Pauling was widely mocked for claiming that vitamin C could fight cancer, especially after trials using vitamin C pills showed no benefit.”
ScienceDaily 7 Aug 2026

This entry

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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Common
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference