Basic Details
Word: Prove
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To show that something is true or correct by providing evidence or examples.
Synonyms: Demonstrate, establish, verify
Antonyms: Disprove, deny, refute
Idioms and Phrases
- Prove one's worth: To show that you are capable or valuable. Example: "He had to work hard to prove his worth on the team after being sidelined with an injury."
- The proof is in the pudding: This means that the real value or quality of something can only be judged from practical experience or results. Example: "They say their new method works better, but the proof is in the pudding; we need to see the results."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The scientist conducted experiments to prove her hypothesis about the effect of sunlight on plant growth.
Example 2: He wanted to prove to his parents that he could manage his own finances.
Example 3: To prove the theory, the teacher used several examples in class.
Fun Fact
The word "prove" comes from the Latin word "probare," which means "to test or to test." This reflects the idea of demonstrating something by checking its truth or correctness through experimentation or evidence.
Famous Quote
"The trouble with the world is that the stupid are cocksure and the intelligent are full of doubt." Bertrand Russell. This quote suggests the importance of proving oneself through understanding and evidence rather than merely believing one is right.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "prove" mean?
a) To ignore something
b) To make a guess
c) To show that something is true
d) To make a mistake
Answer: c) To show that something is true
2. Which of these is a synonym of "prove"?
a) Deny
b) Verify
c) Ignore
d) Refuse
Answer: b) Verify
3. Which of these is an antonym of "prove"?
a) Confirm
b) Disprove
c) Establish
d) Demonstrate
Answer: b) Disprove
4. Which sentence uses "prove" correctly?
a) She wanted to prove her point by shouting louder.
b) They tried to prove the theory with experiments.
c) He proved unhappy by smiling.
d) They proved in the garden yesterday.
Answer: b) They tried to prove the theory with experiments.
5. What does the idiom "the proof is in the pudding" mean?
a) You can only judge something by its direct results.
b) Pudding is always the best dessert.
c) Proof should be sweet.
d) Testing food is important before serving.
Answer: a) You can only judge something by its direct results.
