proof
gb/pɹˈuf/ us/pɹˈuf/
B1
English
~ 2800
Senses
0 senses
Noun
B1
entity
1
evidence showing truth
Information or facts that show something is true.
Usage pattern:
[proof] of [something]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'proof' with 'prove'. 'Proof' is a noun; 'prove' is a verb meaning to show something is true.
Synonyms
evidence (A broader term for anything that can support a claim, not always conclusive.)
Antonyms
disproof (Evidence or argument that shows something is false.)
Collocations
clear proof
|hard proof
|proof of identity
|proof beyond doubt
|lack of proof
Themes
law
|science
|daily life
|communication
Examples
- The scientist provided proof that the new drug was effective.
- Do you have any proof of your address?
- Her fingerprints were the proof the police needed.
- We finally found proof that the story was true.
Learner examples
- I need proof of your name.
- The photo is proof that we were there.
- He showed me proof that he paid.
- They have proof of his age.
Noun
technical
B2
entity
2
test print before final
A test copy of writing or pictures made before the final version.
Synonyms
draft (A preliminary version, not necessarily printed.)
Antonyms
final copy (The completed and approved version for release.)
Collocations
proof copy
|galley proof
|page proof
Themes
publishing
|printing
|work
|arts_entertainment
Examples
- The editor reviewed the proof and marked several mistakes.
- Please send me a proof before printing the invitations.
- The book went through three proofs before publication.
Learner examples
- We read the proof before printing.
- The proof had two mistakes.
- She sent me a proof of the poster.
Noun
technical
B2
quantity
3
alcohol strength measure
A number that shows how strong an alcoholic drink is.
Synonyms
alcohol content (General term for the amount of alcohol present, not a specific scale.)
Collocations
100-proof whiskey
|80-proof rum
Themes
food
|measurement
|food_drink
Examples
- This bottle contains 80-proof vodka.
- The rum is 100-proof, so drink carefully.
- In the US, 50% alcohol by volume equals 100 proof.
Learner examples
- This drink is 80 proof.
- That whiskey is 100 proof.
- Proof tells how strong a drink is.
Noun
technical
C1
entity
4
logical demonstration of truth
A set of steps that shows something in math or logic must be true.
Synonyms
demonstration (Formal showing of validity, often used in mathematics and logic.)
Collocations
formal proof
|mathematical proof
|construct a proof
Themes
mathematics
|logic
|education
|science
Examples
- The student presented a formal proof of the theorem.
- Without a proof, the claim remains unverified.
- Mathematical proofs require rigorous reasoning.
Learner examples
- We wrote a proof in math class.
- The teacher showed us a proof.
- A proof explains why it is true.
Grammar
Dictionary form
proof
IPA
GB/pɹˈuf/
US/pɹˈuf/
Syllables & stress
proof (1 syllable)
Stress on 1st syllable (proof)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: proof
- Plural: proof, proofs
Word family
Forms
proofs
noun
Core family
prove
verb B1
Negative and opposite forms
disprove
verb
disproof
noun
Advanced or less common
provable
adjective
Expressions
burden of proof
1/bˈɚdən əv pɹˈuf/
fixed phrase
formal
duty to prove claim
The duty to give evidence to show that something is true.
Examples
- In a trial, the burden of proof lies with the prosecution.
- The burden of proof is on those making the accusation.
proof positive
2/pɹˈuf pˈɑzɪtɪv/
fixed phrase
definite evidence of truth
Clear evidence that shows something is true with no doubt.
Examples
- His fingerprints on the weapon are proof positive of his guilt.
- The test results are proof positive that the treatment works.
the proof is in the pudding
1/ðə pɹˈuf ˈɪz ˈɪn ðə pˈʊdɪŋ/
idiom
results show the true value
you only know if it works after you try it
Examples
- The new software looks impressive, but the proof is in the pudding once we start using it.
- He promised the changes would help; the proof is in the pudding.
- It sounds like a good idea, but the proof is in the pudding.
the proof is in the pudding
3/ðə pɹˈuf ˈɪz ˈɪn ðə pˈʊdɪŋ/
idiom
informal
results show real value
You can only know how good something is by trying it or seeing the results.
Examples
- You say your cake is great, but the proof is in the pudding.
- The design looks nice, but the proof is in the pudding once we test it.
waterproof / bulletproof / fireproof etc.
4/wˈɔtɚpɹˌuf bˈʊlɪtpɹˌuf fˈaɪɚpɹˌuf ˌɛtsˈɛtɚə ‖/
fixed phrase
protected from specific damage type
Not able to be harmed by water, bullets, fire, etc., depending on the word before 'proof'.
Examples
- This watch is waterproof up to 50 meters.
- The safe is fireproof to protect documents.