Section 2 — The Framework Grammar focus

Session 5 Grammar: Hedging language in journalism

Hedging language allows journalists to report on unverified information while protecting against legal liability — and signals how confident a source really is.

Grammar Focus

[Hedging adverb/phrase] + [claim] OR [Source] + [hedging verb] + [that + clause]

Hedging means qualifying a statement to indicate uncertainty. In journalism, hedging protects legally (if something turns out to be wrong) and epistemically (signals that the claim is not verified). The strength of hedging ranges from strong ("it is alleged that") to weak ("reportedly"). When you see hedging language, ask: Why is this hedged? What does the journalist know — and what don't they know?

"Reportedly, the prime minister is considering resignation." (widely reported but not confirmed)

"The company allegedly received payments from foreign sources." (claimed but unproven — legal protection)

"It is understood that talks broke down over the issue of compensation." (sourced but not attributable)

"Sources suggest the deal may be announced as early as this week." (anonymous, uncertain)

"Officials are believed to be considering further measures." (not confirmed by named sources)

"The minister is said to have known about the payments for months." (distanced attribution)

Variations to practice

it is thought that... according to insiders... the organization is understood to have... there are reports that... it appears that...