Prove
/pruːv/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo establish the truth or validity of something by presenting evidence or argument.
/pruːv/
To demonstrate the truth or existence of something by evidence or argument.
The detective had to prove the suspect was at the scene of the crime.
💡 Simply: Imagine you want to show your friend that cats are better than dogs. You would use facts and reasons to prove your point! You're trying to show your friend that what you believe is right and true.
👶 For kids: To show that something is true by giving reasons or facts.
More Examples
Can you prove your claims with some data?
The new research aims to prove the effectiveness of the treatment.
How It's Used
"The prosecution had to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt."
"Scientists are trying to prove the theory with new experiments."
To show a particular quality or have a particular result, often unexpectedly or surprisingly.
/pruːv/
To show or turn out to be.
The cake proved delicious after all the effort.
💡 Simply: Sometimes, things turn out differently than you expect. If a cake you baked proves to be delicious, then the cake is a success!
👶 For kids: To show that something is a certain way or has a certain result.
More Examples
The rumors proved false.
The new software proved effective at reducing errors.
How It's Used
"The experiment proved that the new method worked well."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
prove oneself
To demonstrate one's abilities or worth.
"She had to prove herself to the team after being newly hired."
the exception that proves the rule
An exception to a general rule that, paradoxically, reinforces the existence of the rule.
"The fact that only a few people didn't like the movie is the exception that proves the rule that it was a success."
From Old French *prover*, from Latin *probare* meaning 'to test, approve, prove'.
Used since Middle English, evolving from the Old French 'prover' which meant 'to test'. Early uses often related to testing the quality or value of something.
Memory tip
Think of a detective PROVING a case by gathering evidence.
Word Origin
"to test, approve"