affirm

[əˈfɜːm]

affirm Definition

• 1. state as a fact; assert strongly and publicly
• 2. offer (someone) emotional support or encouragement
• 3. declare one's support for; uphold or defend

Using affirm: Examples

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

• Example

  He affirmed his innocence in the face of accusations.

• Example

  She affirmed her commitment to the cause.

• Example

  The court affirmed the lower court's decision.

• Example

  I affirm that I will do my best to help you.

affirm Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for affirm

• assert
• declare
• avow
• maintain
• state

Antonyms for affirm

• deny
• contradict
• negate

Phrases with affirm

• affirmative action

  a policy designed to redress past discrimination against women and minority groups through measures to improve their economic and educational opportunities

  Example

  The university has a program of affirmative action to increase the number of minority students.

• self-affirmation

  the process of reminding oneself of one's values, strengths, and accomplishments

  Example

  She practiced self-affirmation by writing down positive affirmations about herself every day.

• affirmative sentence

  a sentence that states a fact or makes a declaration

  Example

  An example of an affirmative sentence is 'The sky is blue.'

Origins of affirm

from Latin 'affirmare', from 'ad-' (to) + 'firmare' (make firm)

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Summary: affirm in Brief

To 'affirm' [əˈfɜːm] means to state something as a fact, assert strongly and publicly, or offer emotional support or encouragement. It can also mean to declare one's support for, uphold, or defend something. Examples include 'He affirmed his innocence in the face of accusations' and 'The court affirmed the lower court's decision.' Phrases like 'affirmative action' and 'self-affirmation' use 'affirm' in specific contexts.