Unrefuted
Unrefuted describes a statement, argument, or theory that has not been proven false or successfully challenged. It implies that despite opportunities for disagreement or evidence to the contrary, no one has been able to convincingly disprove it. The term suggests a lingering truth or validity, at least until someone can definitively overturn it. This doesn't necessarily mean it *is* true, only that it currently stands without successful contradiction or debate. It highlights the lack of any successful counter-argument or opposing evidence that would undermine the initial claim, leaving it unchallenged in the realm of accepted discourse.
Unrefuted meaning with examples
- Despite the intense scrutiny, the scientist's hypothesis regarding the origins of the virus remained unrefuted for months, fueling the debate within the scientific community. Numerous studies were conducted to either prove or disprove it. But the initial evidence continued to support the original claim and it became the base for treatment research and the basis of initial understanding of the viruses' behavior.
- The prosecution's case, built on circumstantial evidence, faced challenges but ultimately remained unrefuted, leading to a guilty verdict. The defense attempted to create doubt around the evidence, bringing in expert witnesses to dispute each piece of the puzzle. However, the core of their case could not be effectively damaged under cross-examination. Their efforts ultimately proved unsuccessful.
- The conspiracy theory, though often dismissed by mainstream media, circulated widely online with an unrefuted claim of government cover-up, gathering supporters daily. Despite attempts by fact-checkers to debunk it, the specifics of the case continued to evade refutation. The lack of an undeniable official explanation allowed the theory to flourish, leaving a lasting impression.
- The author's assertion that his novel was the most influential of the decade, while boasting of many favorable reviews and the wide appeal of its sales, remained largely unrefuted. The fact that nobody had directly opposed his stance seemed odd. While many critics disagreed with his opinion, no one attempted to debate or offer an alternate counter-argument in any detail or with sufficient conviction.