What is a claim? Explained
What is a claim
Pronunciation
/klɛɪm/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A statement or assertion that something belongs to one or is one’s own, often used in the context of insurance, law, or business.
Examples
- The customer filed a claim for the damaged product.
- The insurance company processed the claim and issued a payment.
Synonyms
- Assertion
- Statement
Antonyms
- Denial
- Rejection
Additional Information
A claim can be made in various contexts, such as insurance, law, or business. In insurance, a claim is a formal request to an insurance company to pay for a loss or damage. In law, a claim can be a legal demand for something, such as compensation or damages. In business, a claim can be a request for payment or reimbursement.
In many cases, a claim must be supported by evidence or documentation to validate the assertion. The process of making a claim often involves filling out a claim form, providing supporting documents, and waiting for the claim to be processed and reviewed.
Etymology
The word “claim” comes from the Old French “clamer,” which means “to cry out” or “to proclaim.”
Usage Notes
In formal writing, such as in legal or business documents, it is essential to use precise language when making a claim. In informal contexts, such as in conversation, the word “claim” can be used more loosely to express an opinion or assertion.
Cultural References
In popular culture, the term “claim” is often used in movies, TV shows, and literature to refer to a character’s assertion or demand for something.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Claim responsibility
- Claim ownership
Related Words or Phrases
- Assertion
- Statement
- Request
Collocations
- file a claim
- process a claim
- make a claim
Frequency of Use
The word “claim” is commonly used in formal and informal contexts, and its frequency of use is moderate to high.
Common Misspellings
- cliam
- clame