preponderance of evidence
/prɪˈpɒnd(ə)r(ə)ns əv ˈɛvɪdəns/A legal standard meaning that the evidence presented shows that something is more likely true than not.
In civil cases, the plaintiff must prove a preponderance of evidence to win.
In civil lawsuits, the plaintiff must show that their claim is more probably true than false to succeed.
The court applied the preponderance of evidence test to decide liability.
The judge used the greater weight of evidence standard to determine who was responsible.
Used primarily in civil litigation; criminal cases require the higher standard of 'beyond a reasonable doubt'.
Collocations
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
When to use it
Reserve 'preponderance of evidence' for civil cases or administrative hearings where the burden is to show that a claim is more likely true than false.
📖Word Origin
From Latin 'ponderare' (to weigh) with the prefix 'pre-' (before) and the suffix '-ance' forming a noun meaning 'the act of weighing'; combined with 'evidence' to denote the weighing of proof.
📝Usage Notes
Common in U.S. civil law; rarely used in criminal contexts. Often shortened to 'preponderance' when the meaning is clear.