# validation

/ˌvæɫəˈdeɪʃən/ (US) · /vˌælɪdˈeɪʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/validation
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. checking accuracy

noun · CEFR B2 · Academic

the act of checking or proving that something is true, correct, or follows the rules.

For teachers: the process of establishing the truth, accuracy, or validity of something through evidence or testing.

- The system requires email validation before you can create a new account.
- The research findings underwent rigorous validation by an independent panel of experts to ensure the methodology was sound.

Usage: Often used in technical or academic contexts regarding data and research.

### 2. emotional support

noun · CEFR B2

the feeling that other people understand and accept your emotions or opinions as being real and important.

For teachers: the recognition or affirmation that a person's feelings or opinions are valid and worthwhile.

- It is natural to want some validation from your friends when you are going through a hard time.
- The therapist provided the patient with the emotional validation necessary to begin discussing their past experiences openly.

Teaching tip: This sense has become very common in modern social and psychological discussions.

### 3. official proof

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

a document or mark that shows something is official or legal.

For teachers: an object or certificate that serves as evidence of authenticity or legal status.

- You need to get a validation stamp on your parking ticket at the front desk.
- Without the proper validation from the embassy, the travel documents were considered insufficient for entry into the country.

## Examples

- She looks to her friends for emotional validation after an argument.
- The system requires email validation before you can fully activate your new account and access the platform.
- While external validation can provide a temporary boost to self-esteem, psychologists emphasize the importance of cultivating an internal sense of worth that remains resilient against criticism.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.