they asserted that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they asserted that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate that someone has stated something confidently or firmly, often in a formal context. Example: "In their report, they asserted that the new policy would lead to significant improvements in productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They asserted that, in essence, the rich get richer.

The New York Times - Science

But they asserted that the alternative was worse.

The New York Times

They asserted that they had been defrauded by exaggerated claims.

The Guardian - Arts

They asserted that the economy was on the rise again.

The New York Times

In the kidnapping, they asserted that they had captured 50 police officers.

The New York Times

When they did, they asserted that the product was wholly illegal.

The New York Times

They asserted that they were speaking for "more than half" the reassigned controllers.

The New York Times

They asserted that the review committee had no authority to change the franchise agreements.

The New York Times

They asserted that the proposals were intended to divide their coalition and drive away supporters.

The New York Times

They asserted that Mr. Cochran's team had forced the two Brooklyn lawyers off the case.

The New York Times

They asserted that the move amounted to privatization and would jeopardize Grady's mission.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "they asserted that" when you want to convey a firm and confident statement, especially in formal writing or reporting.

Common error

Avoid using "they asserted that" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "they said" or "they claimed" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they asserted that" functions as a reporting verb phrase, introducing a statement or claim made by a group. It indicates the act of stating something confidently. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they asserted that" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed construction for reporting a confident statement made by a group. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted and suitable for various formal contexts. While common in news and media, it also appears in scientific and encyclopedic writing. When opting for alternatives, consider the specific nuance you wish to convey, such as doubt (using "they claimed") or continued insistence (using "they maintained"). Remember to avoid overusing this phrase in casual conversation, where simpler options may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they claimed that

This alternative is less formal and can sometimes imply doubt or skepticism about the assertion.

they stated that

This alternative is a neutral and straightforward way of reporting a statement.

they maintained that

This implies a continued insistence on the statement, even in the face of opposition.

they declared that

This suggests a more formal and emphatic announcement.

they affirmed that

This indicates a strong confirmation of something already known or believed.

they contended that

This suggests the statement is part of an argument or debate.

they professed that

This can imply the statement is a matter of personal belief or faith.

they avowed that

This indicates a solemn or emphatic declaration.

they argued that

This implies a reasoned presentation of evidence to support the statement.

they posited that

This suggests the statement is a hypothesis or a starting point for further discussion.

FAQs

What does "they asserted that" mean?

The phrase "they asserted that" means that a group of people stated something confidently and firmly, often in a formal or official context. It indicates a declaration or claim made with conviction.

What can I say instead of "they asserted that"?

You can use alternatives like "they claimed that", "they stated that", or "they maintained that" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "they asserted that" formal or informal?

The phrase "they asserted that" is generally considered formal. It is often used in news reports, academic papers, and other types of formal writing.

How do I use "they asserted that" in a sentence?

You can use "they asserted that" by following this structure: "They asserted that" + [statement]. For example, "They asserted that the new policy would improve productivity."