What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prove
Example
The DNA test will prove whether he is the father or not. [prove: verb]
Example
She was able to prove her innocence with the help of a witness. [prove: verb]
establish
Example
He hopes to establish his own company someday. [establish: verb]
Example
The study aims to establish a link between stress and heart disease. [establish: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Establish is more commonly used than prove in everyday language. Establish is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while prove is less common and often associated with legal or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between prove and establish?
Both prove and establish can be used in formal or informal contexts, but prove may be more commonly used in formal settings, such as legal proceedings or academic writing.
