it is supposedly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is supposedly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that something is claimed or believed to be true, but there is some doubt about its accuracy. Example: "It is supposedly the best restaurant in town, but I have yet to try it myself."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The high price tag adds to the speculation about the mission and why the Pentagon would be willing to spend a good chunk of money on an orbiting laboratory at a time when it is supposedly reining in its budget.

Los Angeles Times

How can we take a gay rights movement seriously when its entire struggle undermines and eviscerates the principles it is supposedly fighting for?

Huffington Post

It is, supposedly, her homeland.

The New York Times

It is supposedly the most progressive state in the country.

The Guardian

And it is supposedly beneficial for digestive disorders like mine.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Overclocking" means running the clock deliberately at a higher speed than it is supposedly designed to run at.

Hardware and Computer Organization The Software Perspective

This time, however, it is supposedly different because of the potential of information technology.

The Economist

It is supposedly believed that a jury-man tattled and royalty was involved.

The New Yorker

It is, supposedly, because of "culture" and attitude, education and status.

The New Yorker

It is supposedly the true story of Donna O'Connor's night on the town with him.

The New York Times

Now it is supposedly acceptable to review collections, blogger-style, via the Internet.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is supposedly" when you want to introduce information that is claimed or believed to be true, but you have reservations about its accuracy. It adds a layer of skepticism or distance to the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "it is supposedly" repeatedly without providing context or evidence for the claim. Overuse can make your writing seem evasive or lacking in credibility. Instead, offer a balanced perspective by including sources or acknowledging potential counterarguments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is supposedly" functions as an introductory element indicating that a statement is based on hearsay, assumption, or popular belief rather than concrete evidence. Ludwig AI shows numerous examples across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is supposedly" is a common and grammatically correct way to introduce information that is claimed or believed but not definitively proven. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various sources, including news, science, and academia. While versatile, it's crucial to use the phrase judiciously, providing context and avoiding overuse to maintain credibility. Alternatives like "it is allegedly" or "it is said to be" can offer similar nuances in meaning. As Ludwig AI highlights, being aware of the source and potential biases ensures more effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is allegedly

This phrase is very similar, often used in legal or journalistic contexts to denote an unproven claim.

it is purportedly

This alternative emphasizes the claim aspect, suggesting the information may not be entirely accurate.

it is said to be

This is a more general and common way to express something is claimed without confirmation.

it is rumored to be

This phrase implies the information is based on rumors and lacks solid evidence.

it is believed to be

This alternative highlights the belief aspect but doesn't guarantee truth.

it is thought to be

Similar to "it is believed to be", but may suggest a more casual or less formal assessment.

it is understood to be

This phrase suggests a common, yet possibly unproven, understanding of something.

it is presumed to be

This implies something is accepted as true unless proven otherwise.

it is apparently

This phrase conveys that something seems true based on available evidence, but there is potential doubt.

ostensibly

This adverb suggests something is presented as being true, but the reality might be different.

FAQs

How can I use "it is supposedly" in a sentence?

Use "it is supposedly" to introduce information that is claimed or believed to be true, but about which you have some doubt. For example, "It is supposedly the best restaurant in town, but I haven't tried it yet."

What are some alternatives to "it is supposedly"?

You can use alternatives like "it is allegedly", "it is purportedly", or "it is said to be" to convey a similar meaning.

Is there a difference between "it is supposedly" and "it is actually"?

Yes, "it is supposedly" indicates doubt or uncertainty about a claim, whereas "it is actually" emphasizes the truth or reality of a statement, often contrary to expectations.

When should I avoid using "it is supposedly" in my writing?

Avoid using "it is supposedly" when you have definitive evidence or proof of something. In such cases, a more direct and confident statement would be more appropriate.