burden of proof

noun phrase

: the duty of proving a disputed assertion or charge

Examples of burden of proof in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Unlike the burden of proof — which pressures others to produce impossible evidence — the appeal to ignorance shuts down the conversation by pretending that not having definitive proof is the same thing as being exonerated. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 1 June 2025 But again, your editorial seems intentionally to miss the point: The burden of proof is on those who claim that sanctuary policies do not attract the people they are designed to shield. Dp Opinion, Denver Post, 18 May 2025 The league spokesperson didn’t immediately know if the burden of proof changed with the new policy last year. Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 14 May 2025 In this scenario, auditors would independently verify every calculation, effectively shifting the burden of proof back onto themselves to ensure that the AI performed correctly. Mike Whitmire, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for burden of proof

Word History

First Known Use

1705, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of burden of proof was in 1705

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Burden of proof.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/burden%20of%20proof. Accessed 12 Jun. 2025.

Legal Definition

burden of proof

: the responsibility of producing sufficient evidence in support of a fact or issue and favorably persuading the trier of fact (as a judge or jury) regarding that fact or issue
the burden of proof is sometimes upon the defendant to show his incompetencyW. R. LaFave and A. W. Scott, Jr.
compare standard of proof

Note: The legal concept of the burden of proof encompasses both the burdens of production and persuasion. Burden of proof is often used to refer to one or the other. Burden of proof and burden of persuasion are also sometimes used to refer to the standard of proof.

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