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

Ultimately, neither side could prove the answer with certainty, but according to TAPPS bylaws, the burden of proof falls on the member school or the athlete. — Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 Nov. 2026

Authorities linked 43 victims to coded handwriting on the scorecard but chose to charge Kraft with 16 to narrow the burden of proof. — Leigh Egan, FOXNews.com, 7 Nov. 2026

At the very least, the burden of proof should be on them to prove their confidence is justified. — Sigal Samuel, Vox, 27 Oct. 2026

The burden of proof sits with the person claiming the pattern of the last two hundred years is about to break. — Stephen Messer, Fortune, 16 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1705, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for burden of proof

• aloof
• behoof
• disproof
• flameproof
• foolproof
• greaseproof
• leakproof
• reproof
• soundproof
• bulletproof
• fireproof
• waterproof

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 incompetency

—W. 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.