What does statement mean?
A statement is a declaration of a fact, belief, intention, or official position. It may take the form of a sentence, speech, written declaration, announcement, or, in computing, an instruction that prompts a device to perform an action. The word is especially common in news, public relations, politics, law, and formal documents, where it often denotes an authoritative account or an official response. Statements can be brief or lengthy, factual or expressive, and may be made in speech or writing. The related verb, to state, means to express something in words, especially clearly and formally. A statement can also mean the act of declaring something or, in logic, a proposition that can be evaluated as true or false. Because of its association with clarity and authority, the word often implies that the declared information has been deliberately formulated, although it does not guarantee that it is true.
A written or spoken declaration of a fact, opinion, intention, or official position; also an official account or announcement.
"The organization withdrew its statement after new information emerged."
Common in formal and official contexts. In computing, the term can also mean a command or instruction.
To express or declare information in words, especially clearly and formally.
"Please state your reasons for refusing the offer."
Formal and neutral; often used in official instructions, reports, and legal contexts.
The usual plural of the noun, referring to multiple declarations, announcements, or propositions.
"The witnesses gave conflicting statements about the incident."
A statement can report a fact, declare an opinion, or even give a computer its instructions.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does statement come from?
The word entered Middle English through Old French estatement, a form of the Latin statementem, a verbal noun derived from stare, “to stand.” The Latin verb developed the sense of setting forth, establishing, or declaring. The English word originally referred to a setting forth of a matter and later came to denote the declaration itself and an official written or spoken account.
How statement is actually used
In formal contexts, statement often suggests an official or carefully formulated declaration. In computing, it commonly refers to an instruction in a programming language. As a verb, state is formal and neutral, while say is generally more conversational.
Easily confused with statement
A statement expresses or declares something, whereas a state can refer to a condition, situation, or political community.