physical proof

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "physical proof" is correct and usable in written English.
You might use it when describing tangible evidence of something, such as in the sentence: "The witness provided physical proof of the crime."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He lambasted the string theory of particle physics, arguing that it relied too much on theoretical, rather than physical, proof.

Los Angeles Times

-What physical proof exists for this theory?

The New York Times

Again, physical proof of the theory is lacking.

The New York Times - Science

It abducts personality, consuming the essence of self while leaving the physical proof of self behind.

The New York Times - Books

None of the assertions — by Israel, Britain or France — have included physical proof.

The New York Times

That handshake was transmitted around the Yankees' universe, physical proof of a mended relationship.

The New York Times - Sports

No article seems to mention that there are physical proof it actually exists.

Columbia University

Physical proof and power dissipation analysis is derived for the proposed 3-input majority gate.

Nano Communication Networks

But the physical proof of evolution has always demanded that there should be links or transitional forms.

The Guardian

DON'T PLAY GAMES -- Be absolutely sure your complaint is legitimate and back it up with as much physical proof as possible.

The New York Times

At Neshiko beach, ascension rock – physical proof that there were those who refused to abandon their faith – is half submerged by the incoming tide.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "physical proof", ensure that the context clarifies what constitutes the physical evidence and why it's significant in supporting the claim. For instance, stating "the fingerprints on the weapon provided physical proof of his involvement" is more effective than just saying "there was physical proof".

Common error

Avoid assuming that "physical proof" is always necessary or superior to other forms of evidence. In some situations, testimonial, circumstantial, or digital evidence can be equally or more compelling. Relying solely on tangible items can limit the scope of evidence considered and may lead to overlooking critical information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "physical proof" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes tangible evidence that supports a claim or assertion. Ludwig examples show it used in diverse scenarios, ranging from scientific theories to personal relationships, to describe the existence or validity of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

20%

Science

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "physical proof" refers to tangible evidence used to support a claim. Ludwig's analysis confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently employed across various domains, particularly in news, academia, and science. While it's essential for providing credibility, remember that relying solely on "physical proof" can sometimes limit the scope of evidence considered. Consider alternatives like "tangible evidence" or "concrete evidence" for nuanced expression. Using "physical proof" effectively requires clear articulation of what constitutes the evidence and its significance in supporting the argument.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tangible evidence

This alternative emphasizes the concrete and touchable nature of the evidence, similar to "physical proof".

material evidence

This focuses on the evidence being composed of matter and being concrete in nature.

concrete evidence

This alternative highlights the solid, irrefutable nature of the evidence.

empirical evidence

This suggests evidence derived from observation or experiment, aligning with the idea of "physical proof".

verifiable evidence

This emphasizes the aspect of being able to confirm or substantiate the proof.

hard evidence

This highlights the undeniable and strong nature of the proof.

demonstrable proof

This emphasizes the ability to show or prove something clearly and convincingly.

factual evidence

This alternative stresses that the evidence is based on facts and reality.

objective evidence

This underlines the impartiality and lack of bias in the evidence.

scientific validation

This focuses on the confirmation of something using scientific methods, a specific type of proof.

FAQs

How do you use "physical proof" in a sentence?

You can use "physical proof" to describe tangible evidence that supports a claim, such as: "The recovered documents provided "physical proof" of the company's fraudulent activities."

What's a good substitute for "physical proof"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "tangible evidence", "material evidence", or "concrete evidence".

Is "physical proof" always necessary to prove something?

No, "physical proof" isn't always required. Other forms of evidence, such as witness testimonies or digital records, can also be used to support a claim, especially when "physical proof" is unavailable.

What kind of evidence is considered "physical proof"?

Physical proof typically includes tangible items such as documents, objects, DNA samples, or any other material evidence that can be examined and verified.