a casual assertion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a casual assertion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a statement made in a relaxed or informal manner, often without strong evidence or conviction. Example: "His comment about the weather was just a casual assertion, not based on any real data."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

This is not a casual assertion.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It is an insult to politics, a proudly casual assertion of the emptiness of the promises a candidate makes to voters.

The New Yorker

That casual assertion of mere equivalence strikes a jarring note.

The Guardian - Film

The work stirred up furious debate with its casual assertion that no God was needed to create the universe.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This is not true, and never has been, Gregory wrote, despite the government lawyers' "casual assertion" to the contrary.

The New Yorker

He was also hoping to shift attention away from his casual assertion last month that every person put to death in Texas under his watch was guilty and had full access to the courts, a confidence that even many Bush supporters do not share.

The New York Times

Is there any foundation to this casual assertion, that women cry more readily than men?

Huffington Post

Casual assertions with dangerous — and, often enough, unconstitutional — implications are something of a Trumpian specialty, and they are at the center of this case.

The New Yorker

Through its detailed investigations, the report exposes the casual assertions and assumptions of the government's white paper.

The Guardian - Opinion

CND said the Commons committee's report exposed the "casual assertions and assumptions" of the government's case and warned that replacing Trident would provoke a new arms race.

The Guardian

This casual assertion--which aims to differentiate between streetwalkers and women who occasionally charge for sex when they can no longer afford trips to the hairdresser--leapt off the page as I read a recent New York Times article on DSK's attempt to define himself as a victim badgered for being lustful, which he contends is not a crime.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a casual assertion", ensure that your audience understands the level of certainty (or lack thereof) behind the statement.

Common error

Avoid treating "a casual assertion" as a definitive truth. Always verify information, especially when it impacts important decisions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a casual assertion" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "casual" modifies the noun "assertion". This phrase typically describes a statement presented informally or without strong supporting evidence. Ludwig confirms its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a casual assertion" is a phrase used to describe a statement made informally and often without substantial evidence. Ludwig confirms its primary usage in news and media contexts. While grammatically correct, it's crucial to recognize that such assertions should not be treated as definitive truths. When writing, be mindful of the level of certainty you're conveying and ensure your audience understands the degree of skepticism they should apply. Alternatives like ""a passing remark"" or ""an offhand comment"" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a passing remark

This alternative replaces "assertion" with "remark" to indicate a less formal statement.

an offhand comment

This phrase suggests a comment made without much forethought.

a flippant statement

This implies the statement is made without serious consideration.

a careless declaration

This alternative conveys a lack of attention or concern in the statement.

an unsubstantiated claim

This suggests the assertion lacks evidence or proof.

a superficial comment

This phrase emphasizes the lack of depth or thoroughness in the comment.

a lighthearted declaration

This suggests the declaration is meant to be amusing or entertaining.

a facile statement

This implies the statement is simplistic and lacks depth.

an unproven statement

This indicates that the statement has not been verified or confirmed.

a relaxed pronouncement

This alternative suggests the pronouncement is made in a calm and unconcerned manner.

FAQs

How can I use "a casual assertion" in a sentence?

You can use "a casual assertion" to describe a statement made without much thought or evidence, such as: "His comment about the economy was just a casual assertion, not based on any data."

What's the difference between "a casual assertion" and "a formal claim"?

"A casual assertion" suggests a statement made informally, while "a formal claim" implies a more serious and substantiated declaration.

Are there situations where using "a casual assertion" is inappropriate?

Yes, avoid using "a casual assertion" in contexts where accuracy and precision are crucial, such as in scientific reports or legal documents. In these situations, more substantiated claims are needed.

What can I say instead of "a casual assertion"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a passing remark", "an offhand comment", or "an unsubstantiated claim".