assertion

A statement that presents something as true, often without showing proof.

• Her assertion was difficult to prove.
• He challenged the assertion that the treatment was safe.
• These assertions are based on very little evidence.

How to use it: assertion that… (His assertion that everyone agreed was false.)

Similar words: claim, statement

Common phrases: make an assertion, false assertion, assertion that something

The act of saying firmly that something is true.

• Mere assertion does not prove anything.
• Her confident assertion of the facts impressed the audience.
• Repeated assertion cannot make a false claim true.

How to use it: assertion of something (His forceful assertion of his innocence surprised us.)

Similar words: declaration, affirmation

Common phrases: mere assertion, confident assertion, assertion of something

The act of firmly defending or using a right, power, or claim.

• The protest was an assertion of their rights.
• His assertion of authority angered the committee.
• The declaration marked a public assertion of national independence.

How to use it: assertion of something (The strike was an assertion of the workers’ rights.)

Similar words: defense, exercise

Common phrases: assertion of rights, assertion of authority, assertion of ownership