I avow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I avow" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to declare or affirm something formally or emphatically. Example: "I avow my commitment to the principles of honesty and integrity in all my dealings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

In analyzing this question, I wish to make the comparison as the scientist or engineer would make it, uninfluenced by the predilections for democracy which I avow … Can democratic institutions hold their own in the present struggle for survival between them and the institutions of authoritarian nations?

MIT Technology Review

I confess it is a weakness, but I avow it, I do entertain a considerable affection for the countenance and limbs I behold, whenever I look at a glass; and have more mirrors in my house, and consult them oftener than any beauty in Venice.

Columbia University

As a Muslim and a theist, I avow my belief in the unique status of humans; however, as someone who also believes in science and is keenly attuned to the environment, I have a great love for nature and the animal world, and a great desire to protect them.

Harvard University

Sarkozy: Mr. Ramadan, if it is regressive not to want to stone women, I avow that I am a regressive.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

And yes, I will avow for the record that the Democrats are much better on lots of issues.

Huffington Post

Is it you?" That it was not I, I hastened to avow, even as he wagged an insinuating finger at my nose.

The New York Times - Books

"You mean you're not a Brahmin or something?" I couldn't even avow I was a something.

Huffington Post

Even I – an avowed sport-avoider – choked up during it.

The Guardian - Opinion

So when the current President Bush talked of the war on terrorism after Sept. 11, his reversals, according to Mr. Oates, contained phrases like "I am avowed, we will get them" and "Skies, we have seen the limit with terror".

The New York Times - Arts

At the time, I was an avowed moderate: I was a Hubert Humphrey Democrat, and I recall supporting something called "the Gavin Plan for phased withdrawal from Vietnam" -- the equivalent, more or less, of John Kerry's pledge to bring the boys home from Baghdad by 2008 or so.

The New York Times - Magazine

'I started nothing,' avows White on the encore, 'I wish I didn't', which certainly merits some grammatical unpacking.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I avow" when you want to make a formal or emphatic declaration, especially when you want to convey a sense of conviction or commitment. It is best suited for serious or formal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "I avow" in casual conversations or informal writing. The phrase is relatively formal, and using it in everyday situations might sound unnatural or pretentious. Consider using alternatives like "I declare" or "I affirm" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I avow" functions as a performative utterance, where the act of speaking the words constitutes a formal declaration or affirmation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. Examples show it used to express commitment and belief.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I avow" is a formal way to declare or affirm something, best used in serious contexts. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use when expressing strong conviction. While it's not commonly used in everyday conversation, it fits well in academic writing or formal statements, particularly when you want to emphasize your commitment to a belief. Alternatives include "I declare" or "I affirm". Keep in mind that overusing it in casual contexts might sound unnatural.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I declare

This alternative is a more common and straightforward way to express a formal statement.

I affirm

This alternative suggests a strong and confident statement of truth.

I profess

This alternative indicates a public declaration of belief or feeling.

I assert

This alternative conveys a confident and forceful statement.

I acknowledge

This alternative emphasizes the recognition of a fact or truth.

I maintain

This alternative suggests a firm and persistent declaration.

I attest

This alternative means to bear witness to or certify something as true.

I confess

This alternative implies admitting something that one might be reluctant to reveal.

I vow

This alternative conveys making a solemn promise or pledge.

I swear

This alternative implies making a solemn oath, often to emphasize the truth.

FAQs

What does "I avow" mean?

The phrase "I avow" means to declare or affirm something formally or emphatically. It's a way of stating something with conviction.

When is it appropriate to use "I avow"?

It is appropriate to use "I avow" in formal contexts where you want to express a strong belief or commitment. It is often used in writing or speeches where formality is expected.

What can I say instead of "I avow"?

You can use alternatives like "I declare", "I affirm", or "I profess" depending on the specific context.

Is "I avow" more formal than "I declare"?

Yes, "I avow" tends to be more formal and less frequently used than "I declare". "I avow" carries a stronger sense of solemnity and conviction.