Evidence: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to information or objects that help in proving something. It is commonly used in legal contexts but can be applied in everyday situations when you need to show that something is true.

• The police gathered evidence from the crime scene.
• We need more evidence to support this theory.

Often used in situations where definitive or conclusive verification is needed. Commonly used in both legal and scientific contexts, as well as everyday life when something needs to be conclusively shown.

• Do you have any proof of your claim?
• Mathematical proof is essential in solving the problem.

Applied when something verifies or affirms a previous statement, belief, or hypothesis. Often used in everyday situations or formal confirmations.

• I received confirmation of my appointment by email.
• The results provided confirmation of his initial findings.

Primarily used in legal contexts to refer to formal statements given by witnesses under oath. It can also be used more loosely to describe personal stories that support a claim.

• The witness gave her testimony in court.
• His testimony was crucial to the case.

Use this word when referring to information that supports a belief or conclusion, especially in a legal, scientific, or academic context.

• The detective presented new evidence that could solve the case
• The scientist's evidence strongly supports the theory

This word is used when talking about raw facts or figures that can be analyzed. It is often used in scientific research, business, and technology.

• We need more data to make an informed decision
• The data collected from the survey will help us understand customer preferences

This is used to describe the results or conclusions that come from an investigation or research. It is frequently used in reports, academic papers, and scientific studies.

• The findings from the study were published in a renowned journal
• Our findings suggest that more research is needed

This term is used to describe the outcome of an experiment, test, or a process. It is frequently used in scientific, academic, and practical contexts.

• The results of the experiment were surprising
• She was pleased with the results of her hard work

Use 'evidence' when talking about information or facts that help show that something is true or false. It is often used in legal, scientific, or investigative contexts.

• The police have found new evidence in the case.
• We need more evidence to support our theory.

Use 'demonstrate' when showing how something works, explaining something clearly, or providing proof through actions or examples. It is commonly used in educational, professional, or experimental settings.

• He demonstrated how to use the new software.
• The experiment demonstrated the effect of gravity.

Use 'prove' when providing conclusive evidence to establish the truth or validity of something. It often implies a final or definitive action in contexts such as mathematics, science, or law.

• We need to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that he is guilty.
• The scientist aimed to prove his hypothesis through rigorous testing.

Use 'show' when pointing out, indicating, or displaying something to someone. It is a more general word that can be used in various everyday contexts.

• Can you show me how to get to the station?
• The data shows a significant increase in sales.