burden of proof

NOUN

responsibility to prove something

Synonyms

STRONGEST

onus

WEAK

onus probandi responsibility

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But setting aside the burden of proof required in a courtroom, this outcome was hard for many in the court of public opinion to accept.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

If you did have reason to believe financial malfeasance took place, the burden of proof through the courts would be on your shoulders.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 25, 2026

Defamation cases are typically dealt with in the civil court system which requires a lower burden of proof.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

“The stock’s dip is probably more panic and less thesis collapse. Until proven otherwise, Nvidia is still the leader, but the burden of proof has shifted,” said Bill Birmingham, managing director of REX Financial.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

The burden of proof is on the prosecution.

From "Twelve Angry Men" by Reginald Rose