purportedly

Everyday

(formal) According to what is said or claimed, though it may not be true. tree →

In the lessons

A formal and news word: «The letter was purportedly written by the queen.» It tells the reader that something is claimed but not proved. In media literacy lessons, it is a signal to check the facts.

Examples

• The photo purportedly shows the Loch Ness monster. tree →
• The video was purportedly filmed in space, but it was fake. tree →
• The painting is purportedly by a famous artist. tree →
• The email was purportedly from the bank, but it was a scam. tree →
• The treasure was purportedly buried on the island. tree →
• The note was purportedly signed by the headteacher. tree →

Note

Formal adverb. Related: purport (to claim), purported (adjective). Similar: allegedly, supposedly, reportedly. Online safety: an email «purportedly» from a bank or school might be a scam; check with an adult.