sure proof

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sure proof" is not correct in standard written English.
The correct term is "foolproof," which means something that is designed to be safe from failure or error. Example: "The new software is foolproof, ensuring that even beginners can use it without making mistakes."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

A sure proof that Russia is listenin.

The New Yorker

A whole new "problem" literature became available, with no sure proof that it was warmly welcomed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Indeed, if the Isle of Man is anything to go by, one could say that it's a sure proof of sanity.

The Guardian - Travel

Anyone attempting to examine stupidity, he argued, "must assume about himself that he is not stupid" -- and that is sure proof that he is.

The New York Times - Books

At United breezeblock-footed simian Wayne Rooney filled the Uruguayan's position in attack, sure proof of the laughableness of the Premier League's claim to be the best on the planet.

The Guardian - Sport

In April, the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis reported that the market had attained its highest price-to-earnings ratio in 100 years, sure proof of speculative excess.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

But conversely, into a highly public forum -- a museum -- come these gentle but sure proofs of privacy.

The New York Times - Arts

There is perhaps a lurking irony in the fact that scientists, with all their love of hard data and sure proofs, are eager to let architects — as unempirical a bunch as one could hope to meet — shape a new kind of work environment for them.

The New Yorker

There is perhaps a lurking irony in the fact that scientists, with all their love of hard data and sure proofs, are eager to let architects as unempirical a bunch as one could hope to meet shape a new kind of work environment for them.

The New Yorker

Soon after (gloss to Genesis 1 2) the same term is used in what could again be taken as a strictly astronomical or scientific context: "People who employ rational analysis have sure proofs that there is only one earth".

SEP

(If the cartoon character Calvin is right, the surest proof of intelligent life in the universe is that it has not tried to contact us).

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While "sure proof" appears in various contexts, it's grammatically unconventional. Opt for alternatives like "certain proof", "definitive proof", or "foolproof" for clearer and more standard English.

Common error

Avoid using "sure proof" when you mean something is reliable and incapable of failing. The proper term is "foolproof". For example, instead of "This plan is sure proof", say "This plan is foolproof".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sure proof" functions as a noun phrase intended to describe something that provides strong evidence or certainty. Although commonly used, Ludwig AI indicates that the expression is not considered standard English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sure proof" is used to indicate strong or undeniable evidence. However, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically non-standard. While it appears in various contexts, including News & Media, Wiki, and Science, it's advisable to use more conventional alternatives. Consider options such as "certain proof", "definitive proof", or "foolproof" depending on the specific context to maintain clarity and grammatical correctness. Avoiding "sure proof" can enhance the professionalism and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

certain proof

Replaces "sure" with "certain", emphasizing the lack of doubt.

undeniable proof

Highlights that the evidence cannot be contested.

definitive proof

Indicates that the proof is conclusive and resolves any uncertainty.

conclusive evidence

Shifts from "proof" to "evidence", implying a strong, final conclusion.

irrefutable evidence

Stresses the impossibility of disproving the evidence.

absolute proof

Emphasizes the completeness and certainty of the proof.

cast-iron proof

An idiomatic expression suggesting extremely strong and reliable proof.

unquestionable proof

Suggests that the proof is so strong that no questions can be raised.

incontrovertible evidence

Highlights that the evidence cannot be argued against or denied.

watertight proof

Suggests proof that is flawless and cannot be undermined.

FAQs

Is "sure proof" grammatically correct?

According to Ludwig AI, the phrase "sure proof" is not considered grammatically correct in standard English. Alternatives like "certain proof", "foolproof", or "definitive proof" are preferred.

What does "sure proof" mean when used?

When used, "sure proof" typically implies something that provides strong or undeniable evidence. However, it's better to use phrases like "certain proof", "conclusive evidence", or "irrefutable evidence" to clearly convey this meaning.

What are some alternatives to "sure proof"?

Instead of "sure proof", consider using alternatives such as "certain proof", "definitive proof", "undeniable evidence", or the single word "foolproof" depending on the intended context.

How can I use "foolproof" correctly in a sentence?

Use "foolproof" to describe something designed to be incapable of failing. For example, "This method is foolproof, ensuring success every time" or "They designed a foolproof system to prevent errors".