confirm

[kənˈfɜːm]

confirm Definition

  • 1to make sure that something is true or correct, or to make a fact or statement certain
  • 2to establish the truth or correctness of something that was previously uncertain or in question

Using confirm: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "confirm" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    Can you confirm your reservation number?

  • Example

    The DNA test confirmed that he was the father.

  • Example

    I need to confirm with my boss before I can give you an answer.

confirm Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using confirm

  • to strengthen someone's belief or conviction in something

    Example

    His success confirmed him in his belief that hard work pays off.

  • to provide written proof or confirmation of something

    Example

    Please confirm your acceptance of the job offer in writing.

  • confirm somebody's worst fears

    to prove that something bad that someone feared is actually true

    Example

    The test results confirmed her worst fears about her health.

Phrases with confirm

  • a man who is not married and is unlikely to ever marry

    Example

    He's a confirmed bachelor and has no interest in settling down.

  • a person who is addicted to alcohol and has been for a long time

    Example

    After years of heavy drinking, he became a confirmed alcoholic.

  • a person who habitually doubts or questions accepted opinions or beliefs

    Example

    She's a confirmed skeptic and always asks for evidence before believing anything.

Origins of confirm

from Latin 'confirmare', meaning 'strengthen, establish'

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Summary: confirm in Brief

To 'confirm' [kənˈfɜːm] means to establish the truth or correctness of something that was previously uncertain or in question. It is often used to make sure that something is true or correct, exemplified by 'Can you confirm your reservation number?' 'Confirm' extends into phrases like 'confirmed bachelor,' and idioms like 'confirm somebody in something,' denoting strengthening of beliefs, and 'confirm somebody's worst fears,' implying proving bad news.

How do native speakers use this expression?