What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
evidence
Example
The fingerprints on the weapon were crucial evidence in the murder trial. [evidence: noun]
Example
The data provides evidence of a correlation between smoking and lung cancer. [evidence: noun]
witness
Example
The witness saw the car crash happen and provided a detailed account to the police. [witness: noun]
Example
I witnessed the signing of the contract and can confirm its validity. [witnessed: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Evidence is more commonly used than witness in everyday language, especially in academic or legal contexts. Witness is more specific and is typically used in legal or formal situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between evidence and witness?
Witness is generally more formal than evidence, as it is often used in legal or official contexts. Evidence can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation.
