- prove
- [[t]pru͟ːv[/t]]
♦♦proves, proving, proved, proven(The forms proved and proven can both be used as a past participle.)1) V-LINK If something proves to be true or to have a particular quality, it becomes clear after a period of time that it is true or has that quality.
[V to-inf] We have been accused of exaggerating before, but unfortunately all our reports proved to be true...
[V adj] In the past this process of transition has often proven difficult.
[V n] ...an experiment which was to prove a source of inspiration for many years to come.
Syn:2) VERB If you prove that something is true, you show by means of argument or evidence that it is definitely true.[V n] You brought this charge. You prove it! I have nothing to say...
[V that] The results prove that regulation of the salmon farming industry is inadequate.
[V wh] ...trying to prove how groups of animals have evolved...
[V n adj] That made me hopping mad and determined to prove him wrong...
[V n to-inf] History will prove him to have been right all along.
[V-ed] ...a proven cause of cancer.
3) VERB If you prove yourself to have a certain good quality, you show by your actions that you have it.[V pron-refl to-inf] Margaret proved herself to be a good mother...
[V pron-refl adj] As a composer he proved himself adept at large dramatic forms...
[V pron-refl] A man needs time to prove himself...
[V-ed] Few would argue that this team has experience and proven ability. [Also V pron-refl n, V that]
4) PHRASE: V inflects If you prove a point, you show other people that you know something or can do something, although your action may have no other purpose.It seemed pretty pointless to me to make a 3,000 mile detour simply to prove a point.
English dictionary. 2008.
