testify
To speak in court and say what you know about a crime or legal problem, usually after promising to tell the truth.
To give evidence as a witness in a court of law or similar official legal proceeding, usually under oath.
To say in a strong way that something is true because you know it from your own life or experience.
To state firmly, based on your own experience or knowledge, that something is true.
To speak in front of other people, often in a church, and tell them what you believe and what you think God has done for you.
In a religious context, to speak publicly about your faith or about what you believe God has done in your life.
When facts or things show very clearly that something is true.
(Of facts, results, or things) to serve as clear evidence that something is true.
- Base: testify
- 3rd Person Singular: testifies
- Present Participle: testifying
- Past: testified
be called to testify
1be officially asked to testify
To be officially asked to come to a court or meeting and speak as a witness.
- She was surprised to be called to testify in the trial.
- Several experts were called to testify about the safety of the product.
refuse to testify
1choose not to give evidence
To say you will not speak or give information in court, even when you are asked to do so.
- He invoked his legal rights and refused to testify.
- Several officials refused to testify, citing ongoing investigations.
testify against [someone]
1give evidence harming someone in court
To speak in court and give information that makes a person look guilty or look bad in a legal case.
- He agreed to testify against his former partner in exchange for a lighter sentence.
- Several witnesses are expected to testify against the accused at tomorrow’s hearing.
testify before Congress
1give evidence to a legislature
To speak in front of members of Congress and give information, usually in a formal public meeting.
- The CEO was called to testify before Congress about the company’s data practices.
- Scientists testified before Congress on the impacts of climate change.
testify for [someone]
1give evidence supporting someone in court
To speak in court and give information that helps a person or makes the person look innocent or better in a legal case.
- Her coworkers came to testify for her at the disciplinary hearing.
- The lawyer was relieved when a new witness agreed to testify for the defendant.
testify to [something]
1state or show something is true
To clearly say or show that something is true, often because of your experience or because the facts show it.
- Many satisfied customers testify to the quality of the product.
- His long list of publications testifies to his influence in the field.
testify under oath
1give evidence after swearing truth
To speak in court after making a legal promise that you will tell only the truth.
- The witness testified under oath that he had seen the suspect at the scene.
- If you testify under oath, you can be punished for lying.