prove
Definitions
To show by evidence or argument that something is true
证明，证实（某事为真）
To turn out to be (a certain way) over time
结果是，证明是（某种情况）
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedprove is the root prob (test, prove) in its English shape — the spelling softened from probāre as it passed through Old French prover. To prove is to put something to the test and so establish it is true. The 'turn out to be' sense (the trip proved exhausting) keeps the idea of time revealing the truth.
Root prob still carries 14 more wordsUsage Guide
- proved vs proven: Both work as the past participle. proven is more common as an adjective before a noun (a proven method), proved more common after have (has proved successful), though usage is mixed and both are accepted.
- prove + adjective/to-infinitive: 'prove difficult,' 'prove to be wrong' — here prove means 'turn out to be,' no object needed.
Example Sentences
- 1.
The lawyer couldn't prove that the witness was lying.
- 2.
These figures prove that our strategy is working.
- 3.
The new policy proved to be a complete disaster.