ENGLISH
REFERENCE

establish

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //ɪˈstæbɫɪʃ// UK //ɪstˈæblɪʃ// es·tab·lish Academic General-service

v. to start something that is meant to last for a long time, like a company, a system, or a rule. It can also mean to prove that something is true.

v. to set up an organisation, system, or set of rules on a firm or permanent basis. Also used to mean demonstrating the truth of something through evidence or consensus.


SIMPLE

The company plans to establish a new office in Tokyo next year.

CONTEXTUAL

The researchers worked for years to establish a clear link between the two chemical reactions.

COMPLEX

By publishing the results of the longitudinal study, the team hoped to establish a new standard for safety protocols within the manufacturing industry.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From Middle English establissen, from Old French establiss-, stem of some of the conjugated forms of establir, (Modern French établir), from Latin stabiliō, stabilīre, from stabilis (“firm, steady, stable”).

Usage

The verb is transitive and requires a direct object. When used in the sense of proving a fact, it is often followed by a 'that' clause.

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