do not assert

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "do not assert" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to instruct someone not to make a claim or statement. Example: "In this discussion, please do not assert any opinions without supporting evidence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

First, it is worth considering whether one couldn't accept the idea, for reasons such as those outlined above, that in asserting that p one represents oneself as knowing that p, while taking the rule governing assertion to be, say, 'Do not assert what you take yourself not to know,' or some such.

SEP

I agree, but I do not assert it.

The New York Times

But for reasons of culture as much as language, many parents still do not assert themselves.

The New York Times

But their defenders do not assert that everything should be a community garden.

The New York Times

Put it this way: Few great men — and I use the term precisely, for Pup was a great man — do not assert total control over their domains.

The New York Times - Magazine

I do not assert that the Bushes and Saudis march in lock step, as he suggests, that there is a conspiracy or even an explicit quid pro quo.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

If the poets don't assert the value of their words, who will?

The New York Times - Books

Don't assert what is not yet established by the facts.

The New Yorker

They don't assert their presence, except to tell you (much like your mother) to stand up straight and get your hair out of your face.

The New York Times - Magazine

"The law says that if you don't assert and protect the right to an image, you can lose that right".

The New York Times

They don't involve the U.N., they don't invoke diplomacy, they don't assert a principle of pacifism but affirm a policy of prudent and patient but ready and robust defense.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "do not assert" to maintain a neutral tone, especially in academic or professional writing where impartiality is valued.

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "do not assert" in casual conversations can sound overly formal or stiff. Opt for simpler alternatives like "don't say" or "don't claim" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do not assert" functions as a directive, advising against making a specific claim or statement. As Ludwig highlights, it sets a rule or guideline for communication. Examples in Ludwig show its use in academic and news contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "do not assert" is a grammatically sound phrase used to advise against making unsupported or controversial claims. Ludwig confirms its correctness and applicability in formal contexts such as news and academic writing. It's essential to consider the tone and audience when using this phrase, as simpler alternatives may be more appropriate in casual settings. When using "do not assert", clarity and context are crucial to avoid ambiguity and ensure the intended meaning is effectively conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

refrain from claiming

Emphasizes deliberate avoidance of making a claim.

avoid stating

Suggests preventing oneself from making a declaration.

do not allege

Specifically avoids asserting something without proof.

do not maintain

Refrains from upholding a particular viewpoint or position.

do not profess

Avoids openly declaring or claiming something.

do not contend

Refrains from arguing or asserting a point.

do not declare

Avoids formally or explicitly stating something.

do not affirm

Refrains from confirming or asserting something is true.

do not avow

Avoids openly acknowledging or declaring something.

do not insist

Refrains from demanding acceptance of a statement as true.

FAQs

How can I use "do not assert" in a sentence?

The phrase "do not assert" is used to advise against making a specific claim or statement, often in situations where evidence is lacking or the claim is controversial. For example, "In this discussion, please do not assert any opinions without supporting evidence."

What are some alternatives to "do not assert"?

You can use alternatives like "refrain from claiming", "avoid stating", or "do not allege" depending on the context.

Which is more appropriate: "do not assert" or "do not claim"?

"Do not assert" and "do not claim" are similar, but "do not assert" often implies a slightly more formal or emphatic tone. "Do not claim" may be more suitable for everyday conversation.

What does it mean to "do not assert" something?

To "do not assert" something means to consciously refrain from declaring it as a fact or truth, particularly when there is uncertainty or insufficient evidence.