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proof

n. C / U
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //ˈpɹuf// UK //pɹˈuːf// proof Archaic General-service Informal

n. information or evidence that shows something is definitely true. You use this when you want to be certain about a fact.

n. evidence or argument establishing a fact or the truth of a statement. Often used in legal, scientific, or mathematical contexts to denote absolute certainty.


SIMPLE

Do you have any proof of your identity?

CONTEXTUAL

The scientist presented clear proof that the new medicine works better than the old one.

COMPLEX

While the initial data suggested a correlation, the researchers required further longitudinal studies to provide definitive proof of a causal relationship between the two variables.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English proof, from Old French prove, from Late Latin proba (“a proof”), from Latin probō (“to prove”); see prove; compare also the doublet probe.

Usage

Uncountable when referring to general evidence; countable when referring to a specific mathematical or logical demonstration.

Pitfall

I have many proofs for thisI have much proof for thisIn general conversation, 'proof' is usually uncountable; 'proofs' is typically reserved for mathematical or printing contexts.

Idioms2 entries

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