Another Word for Prove: 11 Synonyms with Examples
To prove is to show beyond doubt that something is true, or to turn out a certain way. Because it is so strong, softer words are often more accurate in academic writing.
As a verb: show to be true
- establish
- demonstrate
- confirm
- verify
- show
- substantiate
- corroborate
As a verb: turn out to be
- turn out
- end up
- emerge as
- be found
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- establish
- Settles a fact so it can be built on.
- demonstrate
- Shows clearly by evidence; slightly less absolute than prove.
- confirm
- Shows that something already believed is correct.
- verify
- Checks that something is accurate, often by testing.
- corroborate
- Supports a statement with further, independent evidence.
- turn out
- Informal; the result became known later.
Example sentences
- establish: The inquiry established that the alarm had been switched off.
- demonstrate: The experiment demonstrated that heat speeds up the reaction.
- confirm: A second scan confirmed the original diagnosis.
- verify: We verified each address against the electoral roll.
- corroborate: CCTV footage corroborated the driver's account.
- turn out: The shortcut turned out to be longer than the main road.
Opposite of prove
- disprove
- refute
- contradict
- discredit
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “prove”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: testify, evidence
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “prove”?
The most useful alternatives are “establish”, “demonstrate”, “confirm”, “verify”, “show”. For the main sense (show to be true), “establish” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “establish” and “demonstrate”?
establish: Settles a fact so it can be built on. demonstrate: Shows clearly by evidence; slightly less absolute than prove.
What is the opposite of “prove”?
Common antonyms are “disprove”, “refute”, “contradict”, “discredit”.