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proving

v. · n.
US //ˈpɹuvɪŋ// UK //pɹˈuːvɪŋ// prov·ing
  1. 1 showing truth (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    showing that something is definitely true by using facts or evidence.

    demonstrating the truth or validity of a proposition through evidence or logical argument.

    Example

    Proving his innocence took many years and a lot of hard work.

    Example

    Proving the theorem required a sophisticated understanding of non-Euclidean geometry that few in the department possessed.

    Usage

    Often followed by a 'that' clause or a direct object.
    • disproving
    • refuting
  2. 2 turning out to be (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    becoming or showing itself to be a certain way over time.

    turning out to be or manifesting a particular quality in the course of time.

    Example

    The new software is proving very useful for our daily tasks.

    Example

    The initial investment is proving more lucrative than the board had anticipated, despite the volatile market conditions.

    Usage

    Commonly used with an adjective as a complement.
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  1. 3 testing substances (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Medicine

    the process of testing how a substance affects the body.

    the systematic process of testing a substance on healthy subjects to observe its effects.

    Example

    The scientist spent months on the proving of the new herbal extract.

    Example

    The clinical proving of the compound revealed several unexpected side effects that necessitated a complete revision of the dosage guidelines.

    Teacher's tip

    This is a highly specialized sense mostly found in historical or alternative medicine contexts; general learners should focus on the verb forms.
Etymology 1

From Middle English provyng, pryvynge, equivalent to prove + -ing.

Etymology 2

From Middle English provyng, prevyng, provynge, prevynge, preovyng, prufunge, preofunge, from Old English *prōfung, equivalent to prove + -ing.

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