allegation

/ˈæləˌgeɪʃən/

/ælɪˈgeɪʃɪn/

Other forms: allegations

An allegation is an accusation, which is sometimes true and sometimes not. If you say your sister stole a candy bar but you don't have any proof that she did it, you have made an allegation.

In the legal system, an allegation is a formal claim against someone. It sparks an investigation that leads to someone being proven innocent or found guilty. In everyday use, however, an allegation is what someone thinks, whether or not there is proof. For example, if someone makes an allegation that you're a terrible driver, they might base it on their own experience, but they won't be able to prove it.

Definitions of allegation

1. noun

   (law) a formal accusation against somebody (often in a court of law)
   “an allegation of malpractice”

   types:

   grievance

   an allegation that something imposes an illegal obligation or denies some legal right or causes injustice

   lodgement, lodgment

   bringing a charge or accusation against someone

   plaint

   (United Kingdom) a written statement of the grounds of complaint made to court of law asking for the grievance to be redressed

   type of:

   accusal, accusation

   a formal charge of wrongdoing brought against a person; the act of imputing blame or guilt
2. noun

   statements affirming or denying certain matters of fact that you are prepared to prove
   synonyms: allegement

   types:

   bill of Particulars

   the particular events to be dealt with in a criminal trial; advises the defendant and the court of the facts the defendant will be required to meet

   type of:

   claim

   an assertion that something is true or factual