evidence - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
evidence Word Meanings
- something that furnishes proof or evidence
- a visible sign of something
- to make evident or clear
evidence Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
evidence Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɛvɪdʒəns/
US
/ˈɛvɪdəns/
evidence Word Etymology
evidence = e- (from) + videre (to see); Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a scene in court where a witness points to a critical document, showing it to the jury, making the truth 'clear' through visible proof.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I tilt the page, move my finger along the edge, and push the corner to catch the light, then I turn the page to compare notes. As the chart lines up with my claim, a quiet line of numbers holds steady in the light and I adjust my grip to keep it in view. The breath slows, and the sensation grows: this little fit of facts feels like evidence that nudges my idea forward. I set the moment in my mind and in my notebook, ready to use it when I speak or write.
Real Context
Evidence is information, documents, or signs that help prove something. In everyday use, it can be data in a report, a witness statement, a photograph, or a measurement that supports a claim. As a noun, evidence is usually treated as uncountable, referring to the body of material that backs up an argument. As a verb, to evidence means to reveal or demonstrate something clearly, as data can evidence a trend. The word traces back to Latin videre, “to see,” and evokes the courtroom image of making the truth visible when a witness points to a crucial document for the jury. Learners often confuse it with proof or try to treat evidence as a countable item.
Usage Reminders
- Treat evidence as uncountable in most contexts (no evidences).
- Remember the common collocations: evidence suggests, strong evidence, evidence shows.
- Differentiate evidence and proof: evidence supports; proof establishes.
- Be cautious with the verb to evidence; prefer to provide evidence in formal writing.
- In academic writing, distinguish evidence from data and from hypothesis.
- Use precise sources: reports, tests, and records count as evidence.
Common Misconceptions
- Evidence is always a single, concrete thing; in fact it is often a collection of information.
- Evidence and proof are the same; proof is just stronger evidence.
- There is a rule that you can count evidences as evidences.
- All signs that point to something are evidence; sometimes they are merely hints.
- To evidence is a common everyday verb; it is used in casual speech.
Thinking Differences
In English, evidence is treated as a body of information rather than a single item, and speakers often confuse it with proof or treat it as countable. The verb form to evidence is rare outside formal writing, so learners usually default to provide evidence or evidence shows.
Learning Tips
- Treat evidence as uncountable in most contexts; avoid 'evidences'.
- Learn common collocations: 'evidence suggests', 'strong evidence', 'evidence shows'.
- Separate 'evidence' from 'proof'; evidence supports, proof proves.
- The verb 'to evidence' is formal; prefer 'to provide evidence' in most writing.
- In academic work, distinguish evidence from data and from hypotheses.
- Cite credible sources to back up your evidence.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'evidence' mean?
A.A tiny insect
B.A piece of information that helps prove something
C.A type of rock
D.A type of flower
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'evidence' correctly?
A.She found a rock that was very strong evidence.
B.He ate a sandwich filled with evidence.
C.The cat showed evidence by meowing loudly.
D.The evidence jumped over the fence.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'evidence'?
A.Water
B.Proof
C.Laughter
D.Cloud
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'evidence'?
A.Happiness
B.Sun
C.Doubt
D.Mountain
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context for 'evidence'?
A.She presented evidence in court to support her case.
B.She danced in the rain.
C.He built a sandcastle at the beach.
D.They rode bicycles in the park.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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