testament

USAGE SUMMARY

"testament" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is usually used to refer to a declaration or an arrangement of belief, usually regarding religious practice. For example: His actions were a testament to his strong faith in God.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It is testament to the measures implemented since that Senna, who was 34, remains the last driver to die on a Formula One weekend.

The Guardian - Sport

It's a testament to the significance of the Snowden disclosures and also to the hard work of many principled legislators on both sides of the aisle," Jameel Jaffer, the group's deputy legal director, said in a statement.

The Guardian

The line-up for the prize is testament to the diverse tastes of fans and of the musicians working today.

The Guardian - Music

Only there isn't, because Guy has recorded his last rant and testament over it.

The Guardian - Books

We're sitting in the garden of the family home on a Sunday afternoon, with Marr's exceptional recovery a testament to his dogged resilience.

The Guardian

Indeed, the way in which he marshalled the Whitehall education machine and its resources to deliver his targets is a testament to his focus and determination.

The Guardian

A message posted on the page read: "It is testament to the character of Isa and the beauty of the people who know him that the money for the initially planned ambulance (£7,000) was raised in less than 14 hours.

The Guardian

Hughton said: "I don't think Watford were better than us but what they have is two strikers who have the know-how and quality to score goals.They changed their system halfway through the first half and I think that's testament to the way we played.

The Guardian - Sport

Christine Langan, head of BBC Films and one of Philomena's principal backers said: "The recognition … is a thrilling testament to Philomena's amazing story and the film-makers' ingenuity and humanity in the telling of it".

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"With Barnaby Joyce saying he is praying for rain, it's clear we have a government with an Old Testament view of the environment, that man alone can dominate the environment.

The Guardian

Dorothy Resig, an editor of Biblical Archaeology Review in Washington DC, said the idea probably arose from the Old Testament Book of Exodus, which says: "So the Egyptians enslaved the children of Israel with backbreaking labour" and the Pharaoh put them to work to build buildings.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "testament" when you want to emphasize that something serves as compelling evidence or proof of a particular quality or achievement.

Common error

Don't use "testament" only in the context of legal documents (like a last will and testament). It's often more powerful when describing something that demonstrates a quality or achievement.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "testament" is that of a noun. It acts as a subject or object within a sentence, referring to something that serves as a sign or evidence of a fact, event, or quality. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "testament" is a versatile word, primarily functioning as a noun, and commonly used to express admiration or recognition while highlighting evidence of specific qualities or outcomes. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples showcasing its usage. While its register leans towards neutral to formal, it's important to remember that the word has a broad meaning and is not only confined to religious aspects. Therefore, when aiming to describe something as a demonstration of a desired quality, "testament" serves as an appropriate and impactful choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

proof

Focuses on the evidentiary aspect of a "testament", highlighting its role in demonstrating truth.

evidence

Similar to "proof", emphasizes the factual basis of a "testament".

tribute

Highlights the aspect of "testament" as a form of recognition or honor.

attestation

Emphasizes the act of witnessing or certifying something, a formal declaration.

demonstration

Focuses on the act of showing or proving something through action, related to a "testament".

confirmation

Highlights the validation aspect, where something strengthens an idea

validation

Highlights the validation aspect, where something expresses something's worth.

legacy

Focuses on what a person or thing leaves behind.

expression of conviction

Highlights the aspect of a "testament" where it shows your beliefs or feelings.

manifestation

Highlights the act of showing or proving something through visible evidence.

FAQs

How can I use "testament" in a sentence?

You can use "testament" to show that something serves as proof or evidence of a particular quality or achievement. For example, "The team's success is a "testament" to their hard work".

What's a good alternative to "testament"?

Depending on the context, you could use "proof", "evidence", or "tribute" instead of "testament".

Is it correct to use "testament" in a non-religious context?

Yes, "testament" is commonly used in non-religious contexts to describe something that serves as evidence or proof. It is not limited to religious or biblical references.

What is the difference between "testament" and "testimony"?

"Testament" refers to something that serves as proof or evidence, while "testimony" is a formal written or spoken statement given in a legal setting.