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Allegedly vs Supposed - What's the difference?

allegedly | supposed |

As an adverb allegedly

is according to someone's allegation.

As a verb supposed is

past tense of suppose.

As an adjective supposed is

presumed to be true, but without proof.

allegedly

English

Adverb

(-)
  • According to someone's allegation.
    • The suspect was allegedly involved in the robbery, but his alibi placed him in another state at the time.
  • According to someone's conspicuous impressions (which could be alleged ensuingly).
    • The game is allegedly exciting.
  • * {{quote-news
    • , year=2008 , date=13/11/2008 , author=Jason Whitlock , title=The 10 best and 10 worst NFL coaches , work= citation , page= , passage=Philip Rivers is allegedly having the best season of any quarterback in the league. }}
  • * {{quote-news
    • , year=2009 , date=02/20/2009 , author= , title=The Closer , work= citation , page= , passage=...her onscreen tears are allegedly real. }}

    Usage notes

    * This term is used in the media to avoid litigation when the facts are not 100% certain, or when referring to evidence in an ongoing trial.

    supposed

    English

    Verb

    (head)
  • (suppose)

    • Adjective

    (-)
  • Presumed to be true, but without proof
    • Jesus is the supposed son of God.
  • (with infinitive) Generally considered or expected.
    • ''The movie is supposed to be good.
  • (with infinitive) Having an obligation.
    • You are not supposed to smoke in the restaurant.'' [Note: this means, you are obliged ''not to smoke.]
    The phone is supposed to come with a manual.
  • (with infinitive) Intended.
    • The phone is supposed to save us time.

    Derived terms

    * supposedly * supposed to

    Statistics

    * English heteronyms