proof of something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "proof of something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to evidence or documentation that supports a claim or assertion. Example: "The scientist provided proof of something significant in her research findings, which could change our understanding of the disease."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Arts

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

These were all proof of something very wrong.

The Guardian

I copied it as a way of preserving it, as proof of something that is very different from now".

The New York Times - Arts

When you're in that situation you may have proof of something, but the trick is not to assume you have the truth.

Independent

The great potential but [also] potential limitation of photography is that it prescribes things: we experience it as proof of something.

The Guardian - Arts

So while three weeks of negotiations did not pan out for P.& G., going to the party is proof of something afoot under Mr. Jager.

The New York Times

The pictures cause us, the readers, to sway slightly as we suspend our disbelief; they look like proof of something we know is unprovable.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

"But he knows an unusual lot for a youth his age and his theme of not doing what he does not want to do, based ever so firmly on what he considers degrading," has given "increasingly firmer proofs of something besides mere restlessness and unreliability".

The New York Times - Books

Proof also of something else: that no matter what the future brings, man's capacity to rise to the occasion will remain unaltered.

Huffington Post

For Panasonic, the technology has largely been proof of concept – something designed to get journalists at shows like CES excited and create some good b-roll of the show's wackiest gadgets.

TechCrunch

For one, Rohingyas interested in returning are required to provide proof of citizenship, something the majority don't have.

Huffington Post

The kidnappers were then told by their handlers to make a proof-of-life video, something we were quite adept at arranging with AfPak's network of Taliban-friendly media contacts.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your language. Instead of always using "proof of something", consider alternatives like "evidence for something" or "confirmation of something" to avoid repetition and add nuance to your writing.

Common error

Be careful not to present something as "proof of something" when it is only suggestive or indicative. Overstating the strength of the evidence can undermine your argument and damage your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "proof of something" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It identifies the existence of evidence or verification related to a specific subject. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Arts

10%

Less common in

Books

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "proof of something" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that serves to highlight the existence of evidence supporting a particular claim or assertion. According to Ludwig, it is frequently found in news and media, science, and arts contexts. While alternatives like "evidence for something" or "confirmation of something" can be used, it's essential to avoid overstating the strength of the "proof" and to ensure it aligns with the actual evidence available. Recognizing its function, communicative purpose, and appropriate register will enhance writing clarity and credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

evidence for something

Replaces "proof" with "evidence", maintaining the core meaning but emphasizing the supporting information.

confirmation of something

Substitutes "proof" with "confirmation", highlighting the act of verifying or establishing something as true.

verification of something

Replaces "proof" with "verification", focusing on the process of confirming the truth or accuracy of something.

demonstration of something

Replaces "proof" with "demonstration", emphasizing the act of showing or proving something through evidence or example.

substantiation of something

Uses "substantiation" instead of "proof", suggesting a more thorough and concrete demonstration.

validation of something

Uses "validation" to indicate that something has been officially recognized or confirmed as legitimate.

corroboration of something

Highlights the act of supporting or confirming something with additional evidence or testimony.

testament to something

Employs "testament" to convey that something serves as strong evidence or a declaration of a particular fact.

grounds for something

Suggests a basis or justification for a particular belief or action, differing slightly from direct proof.

indicator of something

Emphasizes that something serves as a sign or signal that something else is the case, rather than definitive proof.

FAQs

How can I use "proof of something" in a sentence?

You can use "proof of something" to indicate that there is evidence or verification for a particular claim or assertion. For example, "The data provided "proof of something" previously unknown about the effects of the drug."

What are some alternatives to saying "proof of something"?

Some alternatives include "evidence for something", "confirmation of something", or "validation of something" depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to have "proof of something" before making a claim?

While definitive proof is not always possible, providing substantial evidence or reasonable grounds for a claim is crucial for building credibility and persuading others. The level of proof needed varies based on the context and the nature of the claim.

What's the difference between "evidence of something" and "proof of something"?

"Evidence of something" suggests that there are indications or signs that something is true, while ""proof of something"" implies a higher level of certainty and conclusiveness. Evidence can be suggestive, while proof is generally considered more definitive.