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 or not he is the father. [prove: verb]
Example
She was able to prove her innocence with the help of her lawyer. [prove: verb]
substantiate
Example
The research data substantiates the hypothesis that was proposed. [substantiate: verb]
Example
He was unable to substantiate his claims with any concrete evidence. [substantiate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Prove is more common in everyday language than substantiate. Prove is versatile and can be used in a wide range of contexts, while substantiate is more technical and specific.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between prove and substantiate?
Substantiate is more formal than prove and is often used in academic or legal contexts. Prove can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
